Is Liverpool about to dismiss Slot to appoint Xabi Alonso?

Arne Slot’s role as Liverpool’s head coach is highly unstable after the draw with the low-ranked Burnley. Therefore, the Dutch tactician could be sacked shortly as the Liverpool leadership is seriously looking for someone to take over.

Liverpool continued to disappoint fans by being held to a 1-1 draw by the bottom-table side Burnley. in the 22nd round of the 2025/26 Premier League season. Immediately after the match, The Telegraph revealed that manager Arne Slot was summoned by Liverpool’s board to an emergency meeting that lasted until midnight to determine the best approach to address the club’s current issues.

The meeting involved the entire Fenway Sports Group (FSG) board to decide on Slot’s future. It is almost certain that the Dutch coach will be dismissed following a poor run of results, especially the 1-1 draw against Burnley at Anfield on January 17. However, at least for now, everything remains uncertain.

This marks Liverpool’s fourth consecutive draw in the Premier League. The readiness to dismiss Slot early also stems from the fact that Xabi Alonso, the club’s legendary former midfielder, is very enthusiastic about the possibility of taking over as manager mid-season. Moreover, Liverpool’s leadership has given Slot opportunities, but his slow handling of the situation has prevented a quick resolution as hoped.

If FSG decides to sack Slot, Alonso is considered the top candidate and the Spanish coach might accept immediately, even though he is currently resting after leaving Real Madrid. This gives Liverpool’s management confidence, as they rate Alonso higher than Slot.

Obviously, if Liverpool wants to terminate Slot’s contract, it will come at a significant cost. Slot still has a contract until 2027 after signing a three-year deal to leave Feyenoord and take over Liverpool in summer 2024.

His current salary is around £6.6 million per year, excluding bonuses for achievements. If Liverpool dismisses Slot immediately, they will have to pay more than £10 million in compensation to the 47-year-old coach. Money is not a major issue for Liverpool. The remaining question is whether Liverpool can quickly get back on track if they replace Slot with Alonso now?