Importance Score: 30 / 100 🔵
Potential Arsenal Managerial Target: Xabi Alonso
Arsenal have reportedly been alerted to the possibility of appointing Xabi Alonso as their manager, should the highly-regarded Spaniard not rejoin Liverpool or Real Madrid. Alonso, currently impressing at Bayer Leverkusen, has previously expressed his ambition to take charge at one of his former clubs. This development could place Arsenal in contention for his services in the future.
Alonso’s Immediate Future and Arsenal Opportunity
It appears Alonso is poised to remain at Leverkusen for the upcoming season. With Arne Slot’s strong start at Liverpool, securing the Premier League title in his debut season, the Anfield managerial position is unlikely to become vacant soon. Similarly, Real Madrid are not expected to part ways with Carlo Ancelotti at least until next summer. Didi Hamann, former Liverpool midfielder, suggests that Alonso’s decision to stay at Leverkusen could open a pathway for Arsenal to secure his appointment in the long term.
Speaking to CardPlayer, Hamann commented:
“Xabi Alonso is facing a decision, and indications suggest he intends to stay at Bayer Leverkusen for another year, a scenario I deemed improbable just months ago.”
“He has publicly stated his desire to manage one of his previous teams, and Bayern Munich are also heavily linked, alongside Liverpool and Real Madrid. Timing is crucial.”
“I believe he felt succeeding Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool last summer was a significant undertaking. Arne Slot is currently performing well, and Carlo Ancelotti holds considerable control over his departure from Real Madrid.”
“Could Arsenal be a potential destination? It’s conceivable that a moment will arise when he seeks a move, and Arsenal becomes a viable option. While Mikel Arteta’s position is not currently under scrutiny, there might be an opportunity down the line, perhaps after he gains experience at clubs like Liverpool or Real Madrid.”
Arsenal’s Past Interest in Alonso
Historically, Arsenal have shown interest in acquiring Alonso. Rafael Benitez, former Liverpool manager, revealed that the midfielder was once close to joining Arsenal. However, his participation in a Champions League qualifying match ultimately prevented the transfer from materializing.
Benitez’s Account of Failed Arsenal Transfer
Benitez, speaking on the Stick To Football podcast, explained:
“When we pursued Gareth Barry, it was due to his versatility across three positions, and sales were necessary to fund his acquisition. Xabi had reached an agreement and was in discussions with another club.”
“The following year, for a Champions League qualifier against Standard de Liege, with Javier Mascherano and Lucas Leiva at the Olympic Games, and Steven Gerrard with a back issue, we had to field Damien Plessis and Xabi. Xabi had an understanding with Arsenal and was reluctant to become cup-tied.”
“I informed Jamie Carragher and Gerrard pre-match about his agreement and reluctance to play, emphasizing his necessity for Champions League qualification.”
“During warm-ups, you [Carragher] remarked, ‘Poor Xabi.’ He wasn’t ‘poor Xabi’; he was playing for our club at that moment. Throughout that season, he was exceptional but couldn’t finalize his move to Arsenal because he had to play [for Liverpool].”