In a stunning turn of events, Real Madrid have confirmed the sacking of manager Xabi Alonso after a disastrously short eight-month tenure. The decision comes just one day after a painful Spanish Super Cup defeat to arch-rivals Barcelona.
A Dream Return Turns Sour
The Spanish coach's exit marks a brutal end to what was meant to be a glorious homecoming. Alonso had rejoined the Bernabeu giants in the summer of 2025 from German club Bayer Leverkusen, where he had cemented his reputation as one of Europe's most promising managers.
His single season at Leverkusen was nothing short of historic, delivering an unbeaten Bundesliga title, the German Cup, and the German Super Cup. He also guided the team to the Europa League final, where they were narrowly defeated by Italian side Atalanta.
The Persistent Liverpool Link
Alonso's abrupt availability has immediately reignited speculation about a future move to Liverpool, a club where he is still revered for his glittering five-year spell as a player. Interestingly, before his return to Madrid, he was strongly touted as a potential successor to Jurgen Klopp at Anfield.
Speaking just last month, Alonso did little to dampen the rumours. When asked about the possibility of one day managing Liverpool, he stated: "Of course there is a bond with my former club, but for now this is my place. In the future, you never know what might happen."
He has, however, clarified that a move to Merseyside was never on the cards immediately following Klopp's departure, insisting his focus was entirely on Leverkusen at that time.
Current Reds Boss is a Known Admirer
The current Liverpool manager, Arne Slot, has previously heaped praise on Alonso's managerial talents. Ahead of a Champions League clash this season, the Dutch coach highlighted Alonso's exceptional work at Leverkusen.
"That he is special, that's clear," Slot said. "If you go to a club that was bottom of the league and with the same players you bring them all the way up... it tells you that he is special."
Slot pointed to Alonso's experience as a world-class player with incredible tactical insight as key factors in his coaching success, suggesting he understands the pressures his players face.
With Alonso now a free agent, the football world is watching closely to see where the highly-rated 44-year-old will land next. His comments have left the door firmly ajar for a sentimental return to Liverpool, should the opportunity arise in the coming years.
