Liverpool’s form has dipped so sharply that fans are now asking a question that once sounded unthinkable: Who replaces Arne Slot if the club finally runs out of patience?
After nine defeats in twelve games and a 4–1 home loss to PSV, the atmosphere around Anfield has shifted from concern to genuine fear. The curiosity now is not just about whether Slot survives, but about who the club could turn to next.
The board reportedly remains calm for now, but in football, calm can disappear as fast as a counterattack. And with several high-profile names circling, the list of possible replacements is already taking shape.
Is Xabi Alonso the favorite to replace Arne Slot?
Xabi Alonso’s name appears every time the Liverpool job is mentioned, and this time is no different. The former midfielder is reportedly admired inside the club, and bookmakers have pushed him toward the top of the odds.
His reputation has only grown since his Bayer Leverkusen success and his move to Real Madrid. Alonso is viewed as a long-term project coach, someone who knows the Liverpool culture and understands the style fans want.
The obstacle, however, is timing. Madrid will not let him go easily.
Could Klopp make a shocking return?
Jurgen Klopp has not ruled out returning to Liverpool one day. His words were clear: “I said I will never coach a different team in England… So that means if it’s Liverpool, yeah. So yeah, theoretically it’s possible.”
That quote alone was enough to send supporters dreaming. However, Klopp currently works with Red Bull’s global football project and has spoken openly about burnout.
Still, if the club makes a call, no one can fully dismiss the idea. Stranger comebacks have happened in football—ask any striker who scores after ten bad games.
Is Zinedine Zidane a real option?
Zinedine Zidane is available. That alone places him in the conversation. His Champions League record speaks for itself, and Klopp himself once praised his tactical work in detail.
Zidane reportedly prefers a national team job, but Liverpool’s project could tempt him — especially with the squad’s talent.
His only hesitation has always been the language barrier. But as Zidane famously said (via L’Equipe): “Never say never.” Fans may wonder if his next “never” could become a “now.”
Are Premier League managers in the mix?
Oliver Glasner
Glasner’s Crystal Palace side has outplayed Liverpool several times under Slot. His structure, energy, and bold setup make him a dark horse candidate. Palace sitting high in the table boosts his case.
Andoni Iraola
Bournemouth have become one of the most exciting attacking teams in the league. Iraola’s system would fit Liverpool’s wide players perfectly. He is reportedly attracting interest from several big clubs.
Unai Emery
A master tactician with trophies across Europe. Emery brings experience and calm, though his past at Arsenal may hold some weight with Liverpool’s decision-makers.
Julian Nagelsmann
Highly rated, innovative, and admired by the club. The issue? He will likely remain with Germany until after the 2026 World Cup. But Liverpool reportedly keep him on their long-term list.
Managers who could replace Arne Slot
| Manager | Current Role | Key Strength | Main Concern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xabi Alonso | Real Madrid Head Coach | Club DNA & tactical clarity | Availability |
| Jurgen Klopp | Red Bull Global Head of Soccer | Experience & emotional fit | Return after burnout |
| Zinedine Zidane | Free Agent | Elite Champions League record | Language preference |
| Oliver Glasner | Crystal Palace Manager | Strong PL form | Limited big-club sample |
| Andoni Iraola | Bournemouth Manager | Dynamic attacking style | Lack of trophy record |
| Unai Emery | Aston Villa Manager | Vast experience | Past at Arsenal |
| Julian Nagelsmann | Germany National Coach | Modern tactics | Unlikely mid-cycle |
What Anfield Home thinks?
Liverpool will not rush into a decision, but pressure can turn even the strongest plans upside down. Slot still has a chance to recover, but the club cannot ignore what is happening.
If the sack becomes official, Liverpool must choose a manager who understands the club’s identity and can steady the ship quickly.
Alonso feels like the long-term dream. Zidane brings instant credibility. Klopp is the emotional wildcard. But what matters now is making the right call — before results force their hand.