‘You’re going to hear more’ about Xabi Alonso ‘taking over at Liverpool’
Xabi Alonso is emerging as a clear contender to replace Arne Slot at Liverpool and his availability has ramped up pressure on the boss.
Alonso is seen as a hugely favourable option at Anfield with a belief that the fans would also be in favour of the decision as large sections have become frustrated with Slot.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Slot will face intense pressure on his position if he cannot put together a run of results.
Liverpool beat Newcastle 4-1 last time out in what was a huge result given the speculation surrounding the manager, and he now hopes to build on that success.
The Reds have won just six of their last 19 Premier League games, and despite their recent win and impressive Champions League form, questions are being asked.
Xabi Alonso putting pressure on Arne Slot
Alonso was sacked by Real Madrid following what has been a dismal season for the Spanish giants, but remains very highly-rated at Anfield.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Alonso is on Liverpool’s list of managerial targets and could be in line to replace Slot.
The current boss is not believed to be under immediate pressure, with their long-term results to make the difference if they do not qualify for the Champions League.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “As things stand right now Liverpool want to back Arne Slot, they want to give him at least until the end of the season.
“If they were to miss that in Champions League qualification, it will just increase pressure even more on Arne Slot.
“Unfortunately for Slot, he has got the shadow of Xabi Alonso hanging over him. Alonso is a Liverpool legend from his playing time there.
“A lot of fans have a lot of support for Alonso too, so if things don’t improve at Liverpool you’re going to hear more and more talk about him taking over.
“So it’s a key period for slot now he really needs to build a bit of momentum get some results and as I said the minimum I think Liverpool would be expecting would be qualification for next season’s Champions League.“
Slot sack update emerges at Liverpool
Slot’s position at Liverpool is far from untenable, especially after their big win last time out, but it is the inconsistency which has raised questions of late.
A huge win against Newcastle will change the immediate narrative, but this season has seen the Reds fail to put together sustained periods of success.
Football Insider revealed on 30 January that Slot must lead Liverpool to Champions League qualification as a minimum expectation this season.
Slot’s side currently sit fifth in the Premier League table, inside the qualification places, but with rivals Man United applying pressure after a recent turn of form.
The priority at Anfield remains to stick by the manager as things stand, but question marks about his long-term position are not going away.
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