FSG Deliberate Arne Slot Future as Xabi Alonso Emerges as Successor and Jurgen Klopp ‘Return’ Rumors Surface

FSG stands by Arne Slot for now, but Xabi Alonso is named favourite to take over as rumors of a shock Jurgen Klopp return begin to circulate at Liverpool.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 6, 2026, 4:51 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Football365

The Fragile Status of the Title Defense

Liverpool’s 2026 campaign has shifted from a title defense into a desperate scramble for Champions League qualification. Following a heavy defeat at the Etihad and a looming European quarter-final against holders PSG, manager Arne Slot is facing intense scrutiny over a "dull" tactical approach that has seen a significant erosion of fan support. While BBC journalist Sam Drury reports that Fenway Sports Group (FSG) currently has no plans to dismiss the Dutchman, the narrative of a mid-season crisis continues to build among the Anfield faithful.

The ‘Bonnie Prince Jurgen’ Speculation

A sensational claim from former Everton CEO Keith Wyness has injected a dose of nostalgia into the managerial debate. Speaking to Football Insider, Wyness noted that rumors are "strongly circulating" within high-level football networks that Jurgen Klopp is "waiting across the water" to reclaim his position at the club. While Wyness admitted the idea of a Klopp return might be "fanciful," he characterized it as the "fantastic solution" that would immediately revitalize a disillusioned fanbase struggling with the post-title slump.

Xabi Alonso Identified as the Leading Candidate

Despite the emotional pull of a Klopp return, the strategic focus appears to be on Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso. Widely regarded as the "favourite to take over" should FSG decide to move on from Slot, Alonso represents the clinical, high-performance profile the owners reportedly desire for the club’s next evolution. Industry insiders suggest that while the dream of Klopp remains a talking point, the practical move would involve securing the Spaniard, who has long been linked with a return to his former club.