Liverpool’s recent 3-2 loss to AFC Bournemouth has intensified scrutiny over Arne Slot’s leadership, with the Reds’ 13-game unbeaten streak coming to an end. The club’s ownership, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), are reportedly considering a managerial change to boost Premier League title ambitions. Alonso’s proven record at Bayer Leverkusen, where he secured an unbeaten Bundesliga title and a domestic cup, makes him the favorite candidate.
What Has Happened at Liverpool Recently?
After an impressive unbeaten run stretching into double digits, Liverpool’s momentum was halted at home by newly promoted AFC Bournemouth on January 24, 2026. Bournemouth secured a dramatic 3-2 win thanks to Amine Adli’s stoppage-time goal, exacerbating Liverpool’s streak of draws and compounding pressure on the Dutch manager Arne Slot.
Pundits and former players including Danny Murphy have voiced concerns about Liverpool’s form. Murphy stated, “The Liverpool hierarchy would be naive not to be assessing other options, given the fan base dissatisfaction and spending expectations.”
Key Match Details Against Bournemouth:
| Detail | Statistic |
| Final score | Liverpool 2-3 Bournemouth |
| Decisive goal | Amine Adli (90+3′) |
| Liverpool unbeaten run ended | 13 games |
| Previous league draws | 4 consecutive |
This defeat allows Chelsea and Manchester United, with games in hand, to potentially overtake Liverpool in the Premier League standings.
Xabi Alonso: The Leading Candidate
Liverpool’s interest in Xabi Alonso has been confirmed through reports of positive talks with his representatives. The former Liverpool midfielder and Real Madrid manager was recently dismissed from his role at Madrid but previously achieved remarkable success at Bayer Leverkusen.
Jurgen Klopp on Alonso:
“He is a former world-class player, from a coaching family as well. He was like a coach already when he was playing. The football he is playing, the teams he sets up, the transfers he did, it is absolutely exceptional.”
At Leverkusen, Alonso managed 140 games with a record of 89 wins, 32 draws, and 19 losses, achieving a remarkable 2.14 points per game ratio. Under his leadership, Leverkusen won the 2023-24 Bundesliga without losing a single match, lifted the DFB-Pokal, and reached the Europa League final.
| Statistic | Leverkusen Record |
| Games Managed | 140 |
| Wins | 89 |
| Draws | 32 |
| Losses | 19 |
| Points per Game | 2.14 |
This record situates Alonso as a promising candidate capable of competing with top Premier League clubs.
Why Is Liverpool Considering A Change?
Despite investment in the squad ahead of the 2025-26 season, Liverpool’s form under Arne Slot has been patchy. Four consecutive draws before the Bournemouth loss have raised questions about tactical effectiveness and squad management.
FSG’s caution stems from hanging expectations after significant summer spending and fan pressure for a title push. With both Chelsea and Manchester United looming just behind in the table, the club aims to stabilize and advance.
Danny Murphy’s remarks underscore a pragmatic approach from the management: “The fan base is discontent, the form isn’t great, the expectation is high, the money they’ve spent.”
Potential Impact of Alonso’s Appointment
Bringing in Alonso promises a blend of tactical innovation and continuity, owing to his connection with Liverpool as a former player. His track record of an unbeaten Bundesliga title combined with domestic cup success illustrates his capability to manage pressure and deliver results.
Alonso’s style emphasizes disciplined structures, fluid attacking play, and intelligent squad rotation, which could revitalize Liverpool’s offensive and defensive balance.
Tactical Fit and Transfer Strategy
Alonso is known for nurturing young talent and making astute signings suited to his tactical system. Liverpool’s reported readiness to invest further, including an £87 million offer for a midfielder favored by Alonso, signals alignment with a long-term competitive project.
Expert Prediction:
Given Alonso’s managerial pedigree and Klopp’s endorsement, Liverpool could climb back into Premier League title contention under his guidance.
Final Takeaway
Liverpool’s management appears poised to transition from Arne Slot to Xabi Alonso, responding to recent form challenges and ambitious club objectives. Alonso’s managerial success in Germany and Klopp’s public commendation establish a foundation of optimism for the Reds.
The club’s readiness to enhance the squad financially aligns with a strategic push to reclaim Premier League dominance. As discussions progress, Liverpool fans will watch closely to see if Alonso can translate his proven Bundesliga blueprint to England’s most demanding football stage.
