Liverpool Legend Advises Xabi Alonso to Avoid Manchester United Following Madrid Departure

Published On: January 13, 2026
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Liverpool Legend Advises Xabi Alonso to Avoid Manchester United Following Madrid Departure
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Liverpool legend urges Xabi Alonso to take his time before returning to management after Real Madrid fired him.

Xabi Alonso was let go by Real Madrid after just seven months, quickly sparking discussions about his next move.

Manchester United is looking to find a permanent manager before next season, but Nicol believes Alonso should take a step back first.

Photo by Maciej Rogowski/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images

Steve Nicol advises Xabi Alonso against taking the Manchester United position

Steve Nicol has recommended that Xabi Alonso avoid the Manchester United job following his departure from Real Madrid. He believes Alonso should take time to reflect instead of immediately pursuing another high-pressure role.

During a discussion on ESPN FC, Nicol expressed that Alonso needs a break after a challenging time in Spain and shouldn’t rush into another job.

“I think not… Just take the Liverpool side of it away,” Nicol stated when asked about Alonso taking the United job. “You talk about coming out of the frying pan and into the fire.

“No. Xabi Alonso should spend at least six months away from coaching, take time to understand what happened at Real Madrid…

“He should relax, maybe go to the beach for six months, enjoy a few drinks, and decide what to do next. But he should stay clear of Manchester United.”

Advice for caution amid speculation

Xabi Alonso’s time at Real Madrid began well but quickly turned unfavorable. A series of disappointing results, including a loss to Barcelona in the Super Cup, left the team struggling in La Liga.

His unexpected departure has made him a sought-after free agent in European football.

Manchester United is planning to appoint Michael Carrick as their caretaker manager until they find a permanent one.

Although Alonso is a favored candidate among supporters, Nicol insists that taking a break would benefit him the most.

Additionally, Alonso’s history with Liverpool, where he played for several years before moving to Real Madrid, could influence any future decisions regarding Manchester United.




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