Jokes in the middle of the storm

The setting was far from comfortable, but Arne Slot chose irony as his shield. Ahead of Liverpool’s Champions League clash with Olympique de Marseille, the Dutch manager was asked about the rumors placing Xabi Alonso as a potential future coach of the Reds.

His answer did not go unnoticed.

“Yes, yes, he called me and said: ‘What do you think of the team? Because I’m coming in six months,’” Slot said with a laugh in front of the media. The comment, clearly tongue-in-cheek, drew smiles around the press room.

“Or maybe tomorrow…”

Slot didn’t stop there and pushed the joke even further.

“Or maybe even sooner… maybe tomorrow,” he added, reinforcing the sarcastic tone of his response.

The Liverpool boss later admitted it was one of the “strangest” questions he has been asked since arriving at Anfield, especially at a time when the team is not at its best and external noise continues to grow.

Slot turns serious

After the lighthearted moment, Slot shifted to a more direct and personal tone.

“I don’t know what to tell you. I’ve been here a year and a bit, I really enjoy my job, I won the Premier League last year and this season we’re having a tougher time,” he explained.

The Dutchman made it clear he does not feel insecure about his position, while acknowledging that recent performances have fueled speculation. At a club like Liverpool, results dictate the narrative — and historic names are never far from the conversation.

Xabi Alonso, a name that carries weight at Anfield

Even if delivered as a joke, the underlying message is clear. Xabi Alonso, former Liverpool player and former Real Madrid coach, still holds a special connection with the club, and his name naturally sparks excitement whenever Anfield’s bench comes under scrutiny.

For now, Slot remains in charge. But in elite football, even jokes can say a lot.