Jamie Redknapp shares Xabi Alonso theory as Liverpool closes in on Andoni Iraola
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Jamie Redknapp shares his Xabi Alonso theory with Andoni Iraola emerging as the favorite to replace Arne Slot after the Dutchman was fired by the club following a poor seasonJamie Redknapp thought Xabi Alonso would have replaced Arne Slot if Liverpool parted ways earlier(Image: Getty Images)Jamie Redknapp has admitted he was surprised by Liverpool's decision to fire Arne Slot and has shared his theory on why Liverpool didn't pursue Xabi Alonso.Slot leaves Anfield after a difficult campaign that was overshadowed by the tragic death of Diogo Jota and saw Liverpool suffer 19 defeats across all competitions, although Champions League qualification was secured on the final day.After missing out on club legend Xabi Alonso, who instead opted to take the Chelsea job, speculation over Slot's future intensified. However, Liverpool's senior figures had repeatedly indicated they were prepared to stand by the 47-year-old and give him the opportunity to turn things around, making the eventual decision to part ways all the more unexpected.Reflecting on Liverpool's decision, Redknapp admitted that Alonso's decision to go to Stamford Bridge had changed the complexion of who would succeed Slot.
"The Xabi Alonso situation has caught us all by surprise," Redknapp told Sky Sports."Liverpool will have been monitoring it closely. I would be amazed if he doesn't get the job."Liverpool has already confirmed that the search for Slot's successor is underway, with it being widely reported that Andoni Iraola is the leading candidate to take charge at Anfield.The Spaniard enjoyed an impressive campaign with Bournemouth, guiding the club into European competition before announcing his intention to leave in pursuit of a new challenge.Although he had been linked with Crystal Palace, recent reports have suggested Iraola would be open to discussing a move to Liverpool.
Bournemouth has got after teams, high pressure, and that is what Liverpool fans want," the ex-Reds midfielder added. It will be fascinating to see because every player will have to run in that team."Liverpool believes the team’s style of play must evolve toward a more aggressive, front-foot approach to remain competitive amid the changing landscape of the Premier League.That vision has strengthened the candidacy of Iraola, who was originally appointed at Bournemouth by Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes.While Sebastian Hoeness of Stuttgart and Pierre Sage of Lens also remain under consideration, Iraola is widely regarded as the leading contender, with Liverpool understood to be preparing talks with the Basque coach.