The unthinkable is happening: Liverpool is struggling, and manager Arne Slot's future is suddenly under the microscope! It's been a rough start to 2026 for Liverpool in the Premier League, with the team failing to secure a win in their opening five matches. While a 13-game unbeaten streak across all competitions might have painted a rosier picture, a closer look at the performances and results reveals that things weren't as solid as they seemed at Anfield.
This past weekend's defeat to Bournemouth has once again ignited discussions, with names like Xabi Alonso and Arne Slot being thrown around. The big question on everyone's mind is: Will Xabi Alonso be leading Liverpool at the start of the 2026/27 season? And if not, where will he end up?
But here's where it gets controversial: Liverpool fans have watched their beloved team slip out of the top four, a spot now occupied by Manchester United, who have managed to pick up two crucial wins after a recent managerial change. However, it appears that for now, FSG (Fenway Sports Group) isn't planning to follow suit with quick managerial switches like their rivals.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, speaking on talkSPORT, a significant 'decline in results' would need to occur before Liverpool even considers a change. He emphasized that Liverpool currently backs Arne Slot and plans to review the situation at the end of the season. A mid-season change would indeed be a surprise, unless results take a considerable nosedive.
And this is the part most people miss: Liverpool's interest hasn't been swayed by the availability of Xabi Alonso. He was a top contender before Slot's appointment, and it's highly probable that if Arne Slot were to depart at any point, Xabi Alonso would be a leading candidate, if not the leading candidate. However, the current focus is on supporting Slot, even though Xabi Alonso is keen on managing in the Premier League.
Could Liverpool opt for an interim manager? Xabi Alonso's name has been a constant topic of conversation since his departure from Real Madrid. While he might be the ideal long-term solution, it's uncertain if he'd take a mid-season role. If Alonso were to take a break, there's a possibility of an interim manager stepping in for Slot. In such a scenario, Steven Gerrard appears to be the most logical choice, given his coaching experience and strong ties to the club.
Now, I want to hear from you: Do you think Liverpool should stick with Arne Slot, or is it time for a change? And if a change is made, is Xabi Alonso the only answer, or could an interim like Steven Gerrard be the right move? Share your thoughts in the comments below – let's get this debate going!
