The “Prodigal Son” Returns? Alonso’s Reported “Green Light” to Liverpool
The Anfield soap opera has taken a cinematic turn. As of mid-February 2026, the Merseyside air is thick with speculation that Xabi Alonso has finally given a “green light” to return to Liverpool. After a turbulent stint at Real Madrid that ended in January, the Spaniard is reportedly ready to “fix the mess” at his former home—provided the club meets one crucial requirement.
The Context: A Title Defense in Tatters
Just twelve months ago, Arne Slot was the king of the Kop, having secured Liverpool’s 20th Premier League title in his debut season. However, the 2025/26 campaign has been a stark departure from that glory.
* Inconsistency reigns: Despite heavy summer investment in stars like Florian Wirtz, Liverpool currently sits in 6th place.
* Tactical friction: The transition from Klopp’s “heavy metal” football to Slot’s more measured, possession-based system has stalled, with fans growing weary of what some call “uninspiring” performances.
* The Breaking Point: A string of disappointing results—including a January loss to Bournemouth and a recent home defeat to Manchester City—has left Slot’s future hanging by a thread.
The Quote: “I am ready to come home”
According to reports originating from Spanish outlet AS and echoed by various UK sources, Alonso has broken his silence regarding the vacancy that many believe is inevitable.
> “I am ready to come home and fix the mess. The fans deserve better than this inconsistency,” Alonso reportedly told representatives.
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For the Liverpool faithful, these words are a balm. Alonso was the top choice to succeed Klopp in 2024 before he opted to stay at Bayer Leverkusen. Now, as a free agent following his departure from the Bernabéu, the timing finally aligns.
The “Simple Requirement”
While the sentiment is emotional, the deal hinges on a cold, hard “Green Light” condition. Sources suggest Alonso isn’t just looking for a paycheck; he’s looking for total control over a squad overhaul.
The reported requirement is a guaranteed €300m ($322m) transfer war chest to “Alonso-ify” the team. His wish list reportedly includes:
* Micky van de Ven (Tottenham) to shore up the defense.
* Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace) to anchor the midfield.
* Bradley Barcola (PSG) to inject pace into the attack.
| Current Situation | Alonso’s Potential Demand |
|—|—|
| Manager: Arne Slot (Under Pressure) | Manager: Xabi Alonso (Targeted) |
| System: Possession-based 4-3-3 | System: Dynamic 3-4-2-1 / 3-4-3 |
| Status: 6th in Premier League | Goal: Immediate Title Contention |
Is Slot “Doomed”?
Despite the noise, Arne Slot isn’t going quietly. Following a recent FA Cup victory over Brighton, Slot maintained a professional front, insisting he is focused on securing Champions League football. However, the consensus among insiders is that unless Liverpool secures a top-four finish or a major trophy this season, the “Alonso Era” will begin on July 1st, 2026.
With club legend Steven Gerrard reportedly waiting in the wings to take over on an interim basis if Slot is sacked before May, the stage is set for a massive summer at Anfield.
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