Europe’s elite circle around Alonso

Liverpool

As soon as Alonso’s exit from Madrid was announced, the 44-year-old’s name was inevitably linked with Liverpool as uncertainty around Arne Slot’s future continues.

Slot has overseen a recent upturn in form following a disastrous October and November that effectively ended Liverpool’s hopes of retaining the Premier League title.

The Reds are now 11 games unbeaten in all competitions.

However, the scale of the downturn remains difficult to ignore. Liverpool’s struggles came despite £446million being spent in the summer, raising questions about Slot’s ability to mould his own side after succeeding Jurgen Klopp in 2024.

Former midfielder Alonso, who was previously considered as a successor to Klopp before committing to another season at Bayer Leverkusen following an invincible Bundesliga title-winning campaign, could appeal to Liverpool’s hierarchy.

His familiarity with summer signings Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong strengthens that argument, as does his history at Anfield.

Alonso made 143 appearances over five years and played a key role in the club’s iconic Champions League triumph in Istanbul.

Whether Liverpool’s ownership would be willing to act decisively on Slot’s future remains the key question.

Manchester City

It is almost impossible to imagine Manchester City without Pep Guardiola, though rival supporters can only hope that day eventually arrives.

There have been murmurs this season regarding Guardiola’s long-term future, with reports linking the club to Enzo Maresca, hinting that change at the Etihad may not be too far away.

Guardiola’s current deal runs until 2027 and, while City would be happy to extend it, the decision will ultimately rest with the Catalan as he approaches 10 years at a single club for the first time in his career.

Alonso could be viewed as a natural successor, having worked under Guardiola at Bayern Munich.

However, following his difficult spell replacing Carlo Ancelotti at Madrid, stepping into Guardiola’s shadow would represent another enormous challenge.

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