Chelsea fans will love what Arne Slot has just confirmed
It is very clear that a large section of the Chelsea fanbase would like to see Xabi Alonso as the manager of the club next season. Talks have been held with the Spaniard’s camp already. They are believed to have been positive as well. But there is one feeling that many seem to be struggling to shake off.
The rumour that Alonso would prefer the Liverpool job has never really gone away. Some even have the theory that his agents might be using Chelsea to try and test Liverpool’s resolve over Arne Slot. It remains to be seen how accurate that is.
So far, most reliable outlets have suggested that Liverpool have no plans to part ways with Slot, despite the underwhelming season they have had. And now the manager himself as confirmed that he expects to remain at Anfield. He said:
“I have every reason to believe that I am the Liverpool manager next season.
“First of all, I am contracted to this club, and second of all from all the talks we are having.”
Arne Slot staying would help Chelsea in Xabi Alonso race
That will be music to the ears of Chelsea fans, who are hoping that Liverpool don’t end up sacking Slot. In recent months, most reports have suggested that he will hold on to his place in the Anfield hot seat if he can guide them to Champions League qualification. That is not mathematically guaranteed yet, but Liverpool just need to win one out of their last two games, if that.
Slot has also confirmed that he is involved in transfer plans for next season. That could be another indication that Liverpool have no desire to part ways. He said:
“Plans have been made and talks have been ongoing between the club and new players, and I am involved in that, if that is what you want to know.”
Is there any chance Liverpool could sack Slot?
So, it will come as a surprise if Slot is sacked after this. That helps Chelsea’s chances of landing Alonso’s signature immensely. That being said, you never know in football.
A lot of the same things were said about Liam Rosenior as well, who, at one point, was involved in Chelsea’s transfer planning too. But he ended up getting sacked soon afterwards.
If Liverpool end up missing out on Champions League qualification, then there is still a genuine chance that the club could look to part ways, especially with Alonso available. But if they do qualify, expect Slot to remain at Anfield.
If that happens, there is every possibility that the Spaniard would become the next Chelsea manager. Everything will become a lot clearer over the next few matchdays. For now, the Blues need to focus on the task at hand. That is the FA Cup final against Manchester City.
Sourav Mahanty has covered teams like Chelsea, Celtic, Real Madrid, Manchester United, PSG and more over a career that has now lasted a decade.
His work has been featured on Sports Illustrated, Athlon Sports, SB Nation, FanSided, The Sportster and aggregated through Bleacher Report and NewsNow.
Outside of football, he is also interested in basketball, cricket and professional wrestling.
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