Xabi Alonso is once again the protagonist of the European coach market. The former Real Madrid coach is said to have turned down a formal offer to become the new coach at Olympique de Marseilleamid growing rumors linking him to a possible future at Liverpool
According to reports from RMCSport, Alonso immediately rejected the proposal of the French club, who are in the middle of searching for a new head coach as a result. departure of Roberto De Zerbi. The Spaniard’s decision is said to be motivated by that lack of institutional stability and internal tensions in the management of the Marseille club.
Xabi Alonso’s time at Real Madrid
Alonso retired from Real Madrid in January this year. just six months after taking over as head coach at the start of the 2025-26 seasoninstead of Carlo Ancelotti. His departure followed a series that marked a turning point during his short spell at the helm of the Spanish giants.
One of the most talked about moments was The 3-2 loss against Barcelona in the final of the Spanish Super Cup. Days later a video went where Kylian Mbappe and Rodrygo have clearly ignored Alonso’s instructions to stand as a guard of honor for the opposition, a gesture that reflected the coach’s loss of power within the locker room.
Shortly after, the club announced his departure, with Alvaro Arbeloa temporary takeover.
Marseille, abandoned project
According to information published in France, Alonso is now looking for a project with more sporting and institutional funding, to withdraw from clubs that have internal conflicts or disputes at the top of management. This position is said to have been decisive in exclude Marseille, despite the club’s interest in having a coach on its profile.
Liverpool appeared on the horizon
Meanwhile, Alonso’s name is again linked to the Liverpool bench. The English team is in its second season Arne Slot, who, although not in immediate danger, has been questioned for do not repeat the level shown in the previous campaign.
From England, Alonso is seen as a heavyweight option if the board decides to start a new competition at Anfieldwhich will keep the Spanish coach in the media spotlight in the coming months.
Main facts
- Xabi Alonso turned down the chance to become coach of Olympique de Marseille
- The main reason would be that the internal instability of French society
- His time at Real Madrid just lasted six months
- Liverpool appeared as a possible future destination
- The coach is looking for stable and sustainable project