Liverpool have reportedly ‘initiated preliminary discussions’ with a former Premier League midfielder, not Xabi Alonso, as a potential successor to Arne Slot.
Speculation is brewing at Anfield regarding the tenure of Arne Slot. Despite a stellar start, clinching the Premier League title in his debut season, his current standing is under scrutiny with the Reds languishing in mid-table at 10th position. Rumours suggest that should fortunes continue to falter, Slot’s position might be at risk, prompting Liverpool to consider their options.
While former player and current Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has long been touted as a likely candidate, fresh reports indicate that Liverpool have turned their attention to another Spanish maestro. According to Anfield Index, the Reds have ‘held initial talks’ with Cesc Fabregas, who has garnered admiration from Liverpool’s senior hierarchy for his impressive exploits with Italian club Como.
Fabregas and Alonso shared the pitch 54 times with the Spanish national side, famously lifting the World Cup together. Their managerial paths share certain parallels. Alonso enjoyed rapid success at Bayer Leverkusen, finishing sixth in his maiden campaign and subsequently clinching the title the following season, eventually earning the coveted Real Madrid role. Meanwhile, Fabregas guided Como to Serie A promotion in the 2024/25 season, steering them to a commendable 10th place finish, with the club currently sitting in an impressive sixth.
Many in the Liverpool faithful might favour Alonso, given his past Anfield allegiance. However, the pedigree of both candidates is undisputed, with Fabregas boasting third place on the all-time Premier League assist charts. Nevertheless, securing Fabregas seems more feasible at present, as Como does not boast the same stature as Liverpool, whereas Alonso’s Real Madrid stands on equal footing.
However, questions about Fabregas’s tactical approach might arise. Known for his offensive tendencies, he remained resolute even after a recent 4-0 defeat to Inter Milan, stating, “You can approach the game defending with a 6-3-1 formation, or 5-4-1, but I prefer to lose even with this result than do that.” Liverpool may encounter similar defensive frailties experienced under Slot should Fabregas helm the side.