Arne Slot has firmly dismissed speculation linking Xabi Alonso to the Liverpool managerial role, labeling a direct question about the possibility as “one of the weirdest” he’s ever received in his coaching career. The Dutch tactician addressed the rumor head-on during his pre-match press conference ahead of Liverpool’s Champions League clash against Marseille at the Orange Velodrome on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. With the Reds on a 12-game unbeaten run domestically and in Europe, Slot’s response combined humor, confidence, and a clear message: he’s focused on the job at hand and has no intention of stepping aside.

The question arose amid recent developments in Spanish football. Xabi Alonso, a former Liverpool midfielder and highly regarded coach, had been relieved of his duties at Real Madrid just a week earlier following a string of disappointing results. Spanish media outlets quickly began floating his name as a potential successor at Anfield, despite Slot’s solid record since succeeding Jürgen Klopp. The timing felt particularly pointed—Alonso’s availability coincided with Liverpool’s mid-season dip in league form, where they have struggled more than in the title-winning campaign prior. Some outlets suggested FSG might view Alonso as a “dream” replacement if results continued to falter.

Slot, however, was having none of it. Laughing as he responded, he quipped: “Yes he called me and said: ‘What do you think about the team because I am going to take over in six months, can you tell me a little bit more?’ Or maybe earlier. Maybe he takes over tomorrow! No, no, no. This is one of the weirdest questions I ever got.” The room erupted in laughter at his sarcasm, but Slot quickly turned serious: “What is there to say? I am working here for a little bit more than one and a half years and I really like my work over here. We won the league last season, struggled more in the league this season. That is also obvious, so yes what is there left to say?”

The exchange highlighted Slot’s calm demeanor under pressure. Since arriving at Anfield, he has overseen a transformative period—winning the Premier League in his debut season while implementing a possession-based style that has earned praise for its attacking flair. This term has seen inconsistencies, particularly against low blocks, but the team remains unbeaten in 12 matches across all competitions. Slot addressed recent fan frustration, referencing boos after a 1-1 draw with Burnley: “The boos? Maybe I heard a few but it wasn’t as if it was a lot. But I also think it is completely normal that if you have a draw at home to Burnley that no one is happy about that. But I think the moment the people went home, when emotions calmed down, they probably thought in the one and a half years I have been at Liverpool we have never created so many chances against a low block as we did in that game. Maybe it was a little bit more positive than the result showed but we are in a results business I know that.”

The Alonso speculation, while dismissed, reflects broader anxieties among supporters. Liverpool’s midfield has been reshaped under Slot, with new signings and tactical tweaks aimed at maintaining dominance. Mohamed Salah’s return from international duty and potential involvement against Marseille was another focus, with Slot confirming daily talks with the Egyptian star. Dominik Szoboszlai also addressed a recent “disrespectful” mistake and his close relationship with Salah. Meanwhile, Ibrahima Konate’s absence from the squad raised eyebrows, though Slot provided no further details.

Slot’s tenure has not been without challenges. Early criticism focused on adapting to the Premier League’s intensity after his success at Feyenoord, but the league title silenced doubters. This season’s dip has revived questions about long-term fit, especially with high-profile names like Alonso—whose Bayer Leverkusen success made him a Klopp heir apparent in some eyes—now available. Yet Slot’s response emphasized continuity: he enjoys the role, values the club’s direction, and sees no reason to entertain external noise.

The press conference also touched on squad dynamics. Slot downplayed reports of Virgil van Dijk calling a players-only meeting, clarifying that any recent gatherings were led by him post-match. He stressed positives from the Burnley draw—creating numerous chances against a deep defense—and framed the result as part of a results-driven business where perfection is impossible.

Liverpool’s Champions League campaign remains strong, with qualification for the knockout stages secured and momentum building ahead of Marseille. Slot’s light-hearted shutdown of the Alonso question may have been humorous, but it carried a firm undertone: he’s not going anywhere. With Salah back, key players available, and an unbeaten streak intact, the focus remains on performance rather than personnel changes at the top.

Fans reacted positively to Slot’s composure. Social media clips of his sarcastic reply went viral, with many praising his ability to deflect pressure without defensiveness. “Weirdest question ever – love how he handled it,” one supporter posted. Others noted the contrast with past managerial speculation at Anfield, where uncertainty often bred tension. Slot’s confidence suggests stability, even if results remain the ultimate judge.

As Liverpool prepare for Marseille, the narrative shifts back to football. The “weird” question may have provided a moment of levity, but Slot’s answer reinforced his commitment. In a job where speculation is constant, his message was clear: he’s here to work, to win, and to build—on his terms. The Alonso rumor, for now, remains just that—a rumor dismissed with a laugh and a look ahead to the next challenge.