Despite guiding Liverpool to a Premier League title triumph last season, manager Arne Slot is now facing mounting scrutiny following a disappointing campaign. The pressure intensified dramatically after a dramatic 3-2 defeat to Bournemouth on Saturday, where the Reds fought back from two goals down only to concede a stoppage-time winner.
Season Struggles for the Champions
This loss marks Liverpool's seventh league defeat of the current season, a stark contrast to the mere four losses they suffered throughout their entire title-winning campaign. While the team remains competitive—sitting fourth in both the Premier League and Champions League, and still active in the FA Cup—their title defence has been widely viewed as underwhelming.
This is particularly galling given the significant summer investment in players like Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez. The expectation was for a sustained challenge, not a mid-season battle for a top-four finish.
Betting Market Heats Up for Successor
Although Slot's position is not considered immediately under threat, speculation has naturally turned to potential successors. The betting markets have identified a clear frontrunner with strong ties to the club.
Xabi Alonso: The Leading Contender
Former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso is the current favourite at odds of 5/4. The 44-year-old, recently dismissed by Real Madrid despite a 70% win rate, remains highly regarded in management circles. His legendary status at Anfield, built over 210 appearances and major trophy wins between 2004 and 2009, coupled with his Bundesliga title success with Bayer Leverkusen in 2024, makes him a compelling candidate.
Strong Competition from Luis Enrique
Hot on Alonso's heels is Spanish compatriot Luis Enrique, the Paris Saint-Germain manager, priced at 7/4. Enrique achieved a remarkable treble last season with PSG and is yet to sign a contract extension beyond next year, fuelling rumours of a potential move.
Other Notable Names in the Frame
The list of potential candidates is extensive, featuring a mix of experienced heads and former favourites:
- Oliver Glasner (6/1) – Set to leave Crystal Palace upon contract expiry.
- Jurgen Klopp (12/1) – The iconic former Liverpool boss, yet to return to management.
- Steven Gerrard (12/1) – Another club legend exploring his managerial options.
- Simone Inzaghi (12/1) – Currently impressing in Serie A.
Other outsiders include Andoni Iraola, Cesc Fabregas, Enzo Maresca, and Unai Emery, all priced at 12/1 or longer, highlighting the breadth of speculation surrounding the role.
Anfield's Uncertain Future
The situation presents a delicate challenge for Liverpool's hierarchy. Slot deserves credit for last season's historic achievement, but the standards at Anfield are perpetually high. The combination of heavy investment and a faltering title defence has created a narrative of underperformance that is hard to shake.
The coming months will be crucial. Slot must rally his squad to secure a strong finish and perhaps cup success to alleviate the pressure. Meanwhile, the availability of high-calibre managers like Alonso and Enrique ensures that the rumour mill will continue to turn until stability is restored on Merseyside.
