The potential shift at Liverpool is stirring up emotions, as the club seems to be on the brink of a major change—one that could see Arne Slot replaced ahead of the 2026/27 season. This situation arises from a combination of disappointing performances and significant challenges this past year, leading to speculation about Slot's future as head coach.
The 2025/26 season has been particularly tough for everyone associated with Liverpool, who have struggled to defend their Premier League title effectively. Various factors have contributed to this downturn, including the tragic passing of Diogo Jota, a poorly conceived squad overhaul costing over £400 million last summer, and a worrying drop in form from several key players.
While it’s clear that Slot isn’t solely responsible for the current troubles, his decisions have played a role in transforming last season’s champions into a team plagued by fear during matches and lacking attacking prowess.
Typically, Liverpool fans are known for their loyalty, often being the last to criticize their manager. However, discontent is brewing, as many supporters grow weary of Slot’s tactics. Their recent unbeaten streak fails to mask the underlying issues that have emerged within the team.
Adding to the pressure on Slot is the sudden availability of Xabi Alonso, the former manager of Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen, who is now viewed as the ideal candidate to take over from Klopp. Alonso has a reputation for being Liverpool's top choice to replace Klopp next season, especially after a tumultuous six months at Real Madrid that did not tarnish his career too severely. It seems that he could have his pick of clubs in the Premier League come summer, with Liverpool being a prime destination.
So, if Alonso does step in as head coach for the upcoming season, how might Liverpool reshape under his leadership? Given his previous success with a 3-4-2-1 formation at Bayer Leverkusen, it’s likely that he will adopt a similar structure at Anfield. Alisson Becker would undoubtedly remain as the team's first-choice goalkeeper, a position he has solidly secured despite recent additions like Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Alisson's reliability stands out amid the team's various shortcomings, and he is expected to be a key player for at least another year. Likewise, Virgil van Dijk looks set to anchor a revamped back three next season.
However, with Ibrahima Konate still negotiating a contract extension and concerns over the injury-prone Joe Gomez, alongside Marc Guehi opting to join Manchester City, Alonso and his team will need to explore new center-back options in the summer. Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck, valued around £60 million, has emerged as a potential alternative to Guehi and could slot in seamlessly as the left-sided defender in a three-man backline.
To complement Schlotterbeck and Van Dijk, the promising Giovanni Leoni, who should recover in time for the start of the next season, appears to be a natural fit. His single outing this season showcased his potential, provided injuries do not hinder his progress.
Full-back positions have been problematic for Liverpool this season, but players like Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez may thrive in Alonso’s wing-back setup, making them potential stars should Alonso take charge.
In midfield, Ryan Gravenberch is likely to continue playing a deeper role, yet he may need a new partner due to Alexis Mac Allister’s recent decline in form. The suggestion that Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton could be available for £65 million is noteworthy and could provide Liverpool with a strong addition, even if it means replacing Mac Allister, who was outstanding prior to this season.
Upfront, the absence of Mohamed Salah appears inevitable as he doesn’t quite fit into Alonso’s envisioned system—unless he’s employed in a makeshift striker role. Given the tensions between Salah and Slot, a move to the Saudi Pro League or another league seems almost certain.
Instead, players like Florian Wirtz, who is justifying his £116 million transfer fee, and Dominik Szoboszlai, touted as Liverpool’s standout performer this season, are perfect candidates for the No. 10 roles. Meanwhile, Alexander Isak, despite struggling during his debut season, is still poised to become the starting striker over Hugo Ekitike as he finds his rhythm.
This scenario raises several questions: How effective can a manager like Alonso be in revitalizing a struggling squad? What does the future hold for key players like Salah and Mac Allister? And ultimately, can Liverpool reclaim their status as title contenders under new leadership? Your thoughts on these pivotal issues would be greatly appreciated!
