Coach Xabi Alonso sets conditions for joining the Premier League

After leaving Real Madrid, Xabi Alonso has shown interest in working in the Premier League but insists on taking charge only from the summer of 2026, not during the ongoing season.

Xabi Alonso is becoming one of the most sought-after coaches in Europe after his departure from Real Madrid. Although he recently left the royal club, the Spanish tactician has quickly attracted attention from numerous top clubs, especially in the Premier League, a league closely linked with the peak years of his playing career.

However, unlike many peers willing to “firefight” mid-season, Alonso has taken a very clear stance on when to return. According to The Times, Alonso will only consider offers effective from the summer of 2026.

“Taking over a team after more than half the season has passed carries too many risks,”Alonso reportedly shared this view with close associates. For him, a full pre-season period is essential to build tactical systems and leave a lasting impact.

This viewpoint forces many clubs pursuing Alonso to rethink their plans. Given the Premier League’s intense pace, high-performance pressure, and fierce competition, appointing a coach mid-season often leads to short-term decisions. Alonso wants to avoid that cycle. “To achieve sustainable success, you need time to shape the team according to your philosophy,”he emphasized.

Alonso’s name currently appears on the shortlist of potential candidates for several English clubs. Tottenham is reportedly considering him as a long-term option, while Manchester United and Manchester City have also made exploratory moves.

At Liverpool, although the management still openly supports Arne Slot, the appeal of a former player deeply connected like Alonso creates significant pressure.

Alonso himself does not deny his special connection with Liverpool. “I have a very deep connection with English football, especially with my former club,”he once shared while working in Madrid. However, Alonso also stressed that now is not the right time. “In football, the future is always open, but everything needs to happen at the right moment,”.

During his time at Liverpool from 2004 to 2009, Alonso made over 200 appearances, won the Champions League and FA Cup, leaving a strong impression on fans. This foundation makes him a suitable candidate if Liverpool seeks a long-term project in the future.

By setting the summer of 2026 as his start date, clubs wanting him must prepare interim solutions for the remainder of the current season. Clearly, Alonso is choosing a cautious path, prioritizing stability and strategic depth over tempting immediate offers.

With this firm stance, Xabi Alonso not only confirms his ambition in the Premier League but also shows he wants to approach the next big coaching challenge proactively and with long-term planning.