Xabi Alonso backed for controversial Premier League return despite decision being made on next job

Xabi Alonso has been backed for a controversial return to the Premier League as Manchester United manager.

The ex-Liverpool star left Real Madrid in a shock announcement on Monday, just eight months into his tenure at the club.

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Alonso was confirmed to be departing less than 24 hours after his side lost 3-2 to bitter rivals Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup.

It means he is now a free agent and questions are already starting to be asked around where he could end up next.

Man United could arise as a potential option as they search for a permanent manager after deciding to sack Ruben Amorim last week.

Michael Carrick is set to take interim charge until the end of the season, with a permanent replacement tipped for the summer.

talkSPORT host and United fan Andy Goldstein was asked whether he’d take Alonso at Old Trafford now, and responded on Drive: “I think so.

“It would be interesting to see what the United hierarchy are doing as they’re close to rubber-stamping Michael Carrick.

“I wonder if they’ll go, hold on…”

Co-host Darren Bent then questioned: “I’m not sure that with how closely connected he is to Liverpool that he’d do it.”

Alonso played over 200 games for Liverpool throughout his playing career, winning the Champions League with the Reds.

Of course, they are bitter rivals of Man United and Bent believes that could be a deciding factor in whether he fits the role.

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But Goldstein responded: “These things happen, George Graham went from Arsenal to Tottenham… it happens.”

He then said: “I’ll take anyone that turns our fortunes around.

“I know he’s a Liverpool legend. From Liverpool’s fans’ perspective, but because he’s not a scouser, I don’t have a problem with it.

“I couldn’t have a Steven Gerrard taking over. I know he wouldn’t, but you understand what I’m saying.”

Alonso’s decision made

There is sure to be further talk surrounding Alonso’s next job, however, it is understood that he’s not eyeing an instant return.

talkSPORT’s Ben Jacobs has reported that the Spaniard will be waiting until the end of the season at least before taking a new role.

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And Liverpool could well end up being his destination, should they opt to move on from Arne Slot this summer.

Jacobs explained: “I think in short, if Liverpool have a vacancy, Xabi Alonso is going to be one of the names they consider.

“But they don’t have a vacancy and right now, Liverpool are intent on sticking with Arne Slot.

“And I’m told by sources close to Alonso that he doesn’t want to dive into another role mid-season.”

He added: “So, it’s very likely we have a limbo period…

“Slot gets a chance to turn things around and then in the summer, if there were to be a Liverpool vacancy – and it’s still a massive if – maybe Alonso is reconsidered.”