Former Spain and Bayern Munich midfielder Javi Martinez has delivered a strong public endorsement for Xabi Alonso to become the next manager of Liverpool Football Club. This comes as current boss Arne Slot faces increasing scrutiny, with the Reds struggling in sixth place in the Premier League and battling to secure Champions League qualification for the upcoming season.
Martinez Advocates for Change at Anfield
Speaking on BEIN Sports, Martinez argued that Liverpool requires a significant shake-up and that Alonso would be the perfect fit to instigate this transformation. "I think the Liverpool team needs a change," Martinez stated. "Xabi Alonso is a young coach that brings a lot of new things, it's from the Pep Guardiola school. He likes to play the way Cesc Fabregas and Pep play, and I think it will be a perfect match between Xabi Alonso and Liverpool."
Martinez emphasised Alonso's deep connection with the club, noting, "He played there, they love him." This endorsement adds considerable weight to the persistent reports from Spain that strongly link the former Liverpool midfielder with a return to Merseyside, potentially cutting short his managerial break.
Slot Under Mounting Pressure
Arne Slot's position has become increasingly precarious following a series of disappointing results. Despite guiding Liverpool through an unbeaten spell earlier in the season, a run of lacklustre performances against teams like Sunderland, Leeds United, and Burnley has triggered intense criticism. The situation worsened with Saturday's defeat to Bournemouth, which saw Liverpool drop out of the Premier League's top four and the coveted Champions League qualification spots.
The pressure on Slot is further amplified by the successful managerial changes at rival clubs. Both Manchester United and Chelsea have experienced notable revivals after switching managers earlier in the campaign, leading some pundits and fans to urge Liverpool to follow a similar path to rejuvenate their fortunes.
Alonso's Managerial Pedigree and Availability
Xabi Alonso is currently without a club after being dismissed by Real Madrid at the start of January following their Supercopa final loss to Barcelona. Prior to his tenure at the Bernabeu, Alonso achieved remarkable success with Bayer Leverkusen, steering them to an unexpected Bundesliga title, a Europa League final, and DFB Pokal victory, nearly securing a historic treble.
Alonso was previously viewed as a prime candidate to succeed Jurgen Klopp after the legendary manager's surprise exit at the end of the 2023-24 season. His innovative tactics and proven ability to revolutionise a team's fortunes make him an attractive proposition for a Liverpool side seeking a fresh direction.
Martinez revealed that he attempted to contact Alonso after his Real Madrid departure, saying, "I sent him a message but he didn't reply. I did it the day after they sacked him, so I think he switched off the phone." This suggests Alonso is taking time away from the game, but reports indicate he might be persuaded to return for the right opportunity.
The Guardiola Influence and Tactical Fit
Martinez highlighted Alonso's tactical philosophy, which is heavily influenced by Pep Guardiola's methods. This style of possession-based, attacking football could align well with Liverpool's historical identity and the expectations of the Anfield faithful. Alonso's understanding of the club, combined with his modern coaching approach, presents a compelling case for his appointment.
As Liverpool confronts a critical period in their season, the debate over managerial change intensifies. With a respected figure like Javi Martinez publicly backing Xabi Alonso, the speculation surrounding the Anfield hot seat is likely to grow louder in the coming weeks.
