“It’s now or never” – Lewis Steele on Xabi Alonso’s potential Liverpool return | OneFootball

Lewis Steele: Could Xabi Alonso Replace Arne Slot at Liverpool?

The latest Media Matters episode on Anfield Index saw Dave Davis and Lewis Steele address growing uncertainty around Arne Slot and his position at Liverpool.

Despite external speculation, Steele was clear on the club’s current stance. “There’s no chance that they sack him now,” he said, reinforcing that Liverpool are unlikely to make a managerial change before the end of the season.

He added important context, explaining, “they’re not going to suddenly change their mind on that now,” pointing to the club’s measured approach to decision making. Liverpool, in his view, will assess Slot based on whether he meets objectives set earlier in the campaign.

End of season decision remains likely

While Slot appears safe for now, the longer term picture is far less certain. Steele acknowledged that Liverpool’s hierarchy will evaluate key outcomes, including league position and cup performances.

“They will make their decision based on how he fares in the objectives set out at the start of the season by the end,” he said, underlining that nothing is guaranteed beyond the current campaign.

He also hinted at how results could shape the final call. “If he did win a trophy, then he would end up keeping his job,” though he balanced that by noting the broader context of “terrible, terrible performances” throughout the season.

This leaves Slot in a precarious position, with his future tied directly to results in the closing weeks.

Xabi Alonso emerges as key alternative

Attention inevitably turned to potential successors, with Xabi Alonso emerging as a central figure in the discussion.

Steele confirmed that Alonso is highly regarded across the game, stating, “it’s common knowledge that Alonso would be near the top of their list.” Crucially, this is not limited to Liverpool, with strong links also connecting him to Manchester City.

That dual interest adds urgency to any decision. Steele explained, “a lot of these clubs think that Alonso is quite attainable now,” but warned, “it is a bit of a now or never situation because he’s going to take a job this summer.”

Photo: IMAGO

Competition from Manchester City complicates picture

The possibility of Manchester City entering the race adds another layer of complexity. Steele noted uncertainty around Pep Guardiola’s future but suggested clubs internally may already have clarity.

“I think privately City will probably know by now whether Pep’s staying or going,” he said, indicating that movement behind the scenes could already be shaping the managerial market.

For Liverpool, this creates a strategic dilemma. Steele pointed out that waiting too long carries risk, explaining that Alonso’s future “would already be decided by then” if clubs delay their approach.

Timing key to Liverpool decision

The discussion highlighted the delicate balance Liverpool must strike. Acting too early could appear reactive, while waiting too long could see top targets move elsewhere.

Steele made clear that Alonso’s availability has already shifted the conversation. “One of the worst things that’s happened to him this season is that Alonso became available,” he said, referencing the pressure this places on Slot.

The presence of a high calibre alternative inevitably sharpens scrutiny on the current manager.

Uncertainty defines Liverpool’s direction

The Media Matters exchange ultimately painted a picture of a club at a crossroads. Slot remains in position for now, but with no guarantees beyond the season.

At the same time, Xabi Alonso represents both opportunity and risk, a sought after candidate who may not remain available for long, particularly with Manchester City also in the frame.

As Steele’s comments suggest, Liverpool’s next move will require precise timing and clarity of vision. The coming months will not only define Slot’s future, but also shape the club’s trajectory in an increasingly competitive managerial market.