With Liverpool winless in five Premier League games, the Anfield hierarchy is reportedly exploring a mid-season managerial change, with Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso firmly in their sights.
The Arne Slot Crisis
The honeymoon period for Arne Slot is officially over. A dismal run of form has seen the Reds drop to 6th place in the Premier League table, sparking intense debate within the board about his future. According to journalist James Wathland, the club has intensified communications with Xabi Alonso over the last 48 hours to gauge his availability.
While many at Anfield view Alonso as the rightful heir to the long-term project, a mid-season appointment remains a “sticking point.” Reports suggest Alonso himself is hesitant to leave Leverkusen during a campaign, preferring a clean start in June.
The Steven Gerrard Dilemma: Interim or Nothing?
As the club prepares for the possibility of sacking Slot before the season ends, the name of legendary captain Steven Gerrard has emerged as a potential interim solution. However, the negotiations have hit a major roadblock:
- Gerrard’s Stance: The former Rangers and Aston Villa boss is reportedly unwilling to act as a “stopgap” or “bridge” for Xabi Alonso. Gerrard believes his managerial experience warrants a permanent role at Anfield.
- The Assistant Offer: Liverpool’s board allegedly floated the idea of Gerrard joining Alonso’s future staff as an assistant an offer that was swiftly rejected by the Reds’ icon.
A Defining Test Against Newcastle
Amidst the boardroom drama, the players must focus on the pitch. Liverpool host Newcastle United this Saturday, January 31st, in a match that could decide Arne Slot’s fate.
Failure to secure three points at Anfield might leave the board with no choice but to pull the trigger on a change before the February fixtures.
Match Details: Liverpool vs Newcastle United
- Competition: Premier League (Matchday 23)
- Venue: Anfield, Liverpool
- Date: Saturday, Jan 31st, 2026
- Kick-off: 20:00 GMT (local) / 15:00 BRT
- Current Form: Liverpool (L-D-L-D-L) | Newcastle (W-W-D-L-W)
James Horan is a football writer focused on the Premier League transfer market, covering confirmed signings, transfer rumors, and club strategies during the transfer windows.
