A potential shake-up is brewing at Liverpool FC, and it's a fascinating tale of twists and turns. The future of manager Arne Slot hangs in the balance, and a highly-regarded replacement is suddenly within reach.
The 2025/26 season has been a challenging one for Liverpool, with a disappointing title defense and a series of unfortunate events. From the tragic passing of Diogo Jota to a costly squad overhaul, the club has faced multiple setbacks. Slot, while not solely responsible, has contributed to the team's decline with some questionable decisions, transforming a once-dominant force into a side lacking confidence and creativity.
Liverpool's fans, known for their loyalty, are starting to show signs of impatience. The manager's approach has left many uninspired, and the unbeaten run is doing little to hide the growing cracks. And here's where it gets controversial... the sudden availability of Xabi Alonso, former boss of Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen, has further weakened Slot's position. Alonso was Liverpool's top choice to replace Jurgen Klopp back in 2024, and his potential arrival could signal a new era for the club.
So, if Alonso does take the helm, what might Liverpool look like in the 2026/27 campaign? Well, given his preference for a 3-4-2-1 formation at Bayer Leverkusen, and with a couple of his former players now at Liverpool, we can expect a similar setup at Anfield. Alisson Becker, a rock in goal, will likely retain his starting spot, despite the recent signing of Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Virgil van Dijk, a key figure in defense, should anchor a revamped back three. However, with Ibrahima Konate's contract extension uncertain, Liverpool's options at center-back are limited. Joe Gomez's injury troubles and Marc Guehi's move to Manchester City leave Alonso's team searching for solutions. One potential answer is Nico Schlotterbeck from Borussia Dortmund, valued at £60m, who could slot in seamlessly as the left-sided defender.
To Schlotterbeck's right, young Giovanni Leoni, expected to be fit for next season, is an obvious choice. His sole appearance this season hinted at his potential, and if injury woes don't hinder him, he could be a standout performer. Full-back has been a problematic position, with Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez struggling, but they might thrive in Alonso's potential wing-back system.
In midfield, Ryan Gravenberch needs to maintain his deep-lying role, but a new partner might be on the cards. Alexis Mac Allister's decline could see him replaced, especially with Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton reportedly available for £65m. While it might seem harsh on Mac Allister, who shone for Liverpool previously, Wharton offers a complete package that Liverpool shouldn't overlook.
Moving forward, Salah's future is uncertain. He doesn't fit into this system, and a move to the Saudi Pro League or elsewhere seems likely, given his conflicts with Slot and other key figures. Instead, Florian Wirtz and Dominik Szoboszlai, Liverpool's standout player this season, could occupy the No.10 roles. And up front, Alexander Isak, despite a poor debut season, is likely to start ahead of Hugo Ekitike once he finds his rhythm.
This potential reshuffle at Liverpool is a story of change and adaptation. With Alonso at the helm, the club could see a new era of success. But what do you think? Is Alonso the right man for the job? And how might this new-look Liverpool fare in the upcoming season? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
