Key Takeaways:
- Real Madrid edged past Talavera de la Reina with a 3-2 victory on Wednesday night, failing to dispel doubts surrounding Xabi Alonso’s tenure
- Manchester City are considering Alonso as a potential replacement should Pep Guardiola depart at the end of the season
- Liverpool remain interested in appointing Alonso if he becomes available, with current manager Arne Slot under increasing scrutiny
Alonso’s Position at Real Madrid Under Threat
On Wednesday night, Real Madrid secured a narrow 3-2 win against third-tier outfit Talavera de la Reina – a side placed 15 positions below the club’s B team, Castilla. The performance did little to ease the mounting pressure on Xabi Alonso, with growing speculation over his future at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Reports indicate that Alonso’s job could be in jeopardy if Real Madrid fail to secure a victory over Sevilla this weekend. Other sources have stated that the club’s leadership may retain Alonso until the Spanish Supercup, intending to re-evaluate his position at that stage.
We've all seen @David_Ornstein's exclusive: @ManCity admire Enzo Maresca.
We understand #MCFC also have @XabiAlonso on their shortlist.
Pep's a big fan of Xabi; this all depends on the @realmadrid, @LFC and Slot situations at that time. pic.twitter.com/MHpw72KO0p
— indykaila News (@indykaila) December 18, 2025
Premier League Suitors Monitor Alonso’s Situation
Despite his challenges in Madrid, Alonso’s managerial reputation remains strong, stemming largely from his successful spell at Bayer Leverkusen. Manchester City are the latest top club expressing interest, reportedly viewing him as a prime candidate to replace Pep Guardiola if the current manager decides to leave at season’s end, according to Indykaila. Guardiola, who worked alongside Alonso at Bayern Munich, is considered one of his strongest supporters.
Last week, prior to their Champions League meeting, Guardiola offered Alonso some unexpected advice, saying he should “pee with his own”, a phrase interpreted by many as counsel to remain true to his own principles: “to die with the ideas he defends”.
Liverpool Maintain Interest as Slot Faces Pressure
Liverpool have also been linked with Alonso, with suggestions that the Merseyside club are eager to approach him if he becomes available. Current manager Arne Slot is under significant pressure due to results not aligning with the club’s financial investment and expectations. Some believe Alonso’s current tenure in Madrid is the only thing keeping Slot in his position at this time. Ahead of the Manchester City clash, Alonso hinted at his openness to taking a managerial role in the Premier League.
