Manchester United is not the only major club to make changes early in 2026.
Xabi Alonso was let go by Real Madrid this week after just seven months as head coach, following a loss to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final.
During his time at the Bernabeu, the former Liverpool and Real Madrid player won 24 of his 34 matches.
Despite his short tenure, Alonso is likely to attract interest from multiple clubs across Europe.
With Ineos currently searching for a new permanent head coach to replace Carrick this summer, it was anticipated that United would be involved in discussions about Alonso.
Alonso’s successful Bundesliga season with Bayer Leverkusen last year is noteworthy. His team went unbeaten in the league and set a European record with a 51-match unbeaten streak across all competitions.
According to Miguel Delaney from The Independent, United is indeed considering Alonso, though it may be a challenging prospect.
“They are definitely looking at it, while knowing it’s unlikely,” the journalist wrote.
“United wants to take the next five months to think carefully about their next steps, but he is one of the top coaching candidates available.”
“There is an understanding that he has ties to Liverpool, and other positions might be more attractive based on recent success and organizational structure. However, United believes they are improving in that aspect.”
Jamie Carragher questions Man Utd’s chances of hiring Xabi Alonso
This wouldn’t be the first time United has hired someone with connections to Liverpool.
For example, Sir Matt Busby played 37 games for Liverpool and scored five goals before helping United grow into a global giant, even after the Munich Air Disaster.
Recently, fitness coach Andy O’Boyle also joined United after working with Liverpool.
Carragher, who played alongside Alonso, quickly dismissed the idea of his former teammate moving to Old Trafford.
The former defender said on Stick To Football: “He can’t go there.”
Liverpool fans will be watching closely, hoping that United does not take significant steps to appoint Alonso as their next manager.
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