Xabi Alonso’s sudden Real Madrid exit makes him a high-profile free agent and a likely summer target for top clubs. Punters may see shortened odds for him as next Manchester United or as Liverpool’s future manager if a vacancy emerges — consider small early-market bets on “next United manager” or wait for clearer summer markets for Liverpool. Expect odds to drift if he refuses a mid-season appointment.
Xabi Alonso exits Real Madrid after eight months
Xabi Alonso has left Real Madrid by mutual agreement just eight months into his tenure, becoming an immediate free agent. The departure followed a 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup and raises fresh questions about his next destination.
Premier League interest: Manchester United and Liverpool linked
Manchester United emerges as a possibility
Manchester United, searching for a permanent manager after recent upheaval, has been mentioned as a potential suitor. Michael Carrick is set to take interim charge until the end of the season, with a permanent appointment expected in the summer, creating a window for Alonso to be considered.
Liverpool remains a likely summer option
Alonso’s Liverpool past complicates any switch to United but also places him high on the list should Liverpool change course. Sources close to Alonso indicate he prefers not to take another job mid-season, making a summer appointment — potentially at Liverpool if there’s a vacancy — the most plausible scenario.
Pundit reaction and the rivalry factor
Debate has focused on whether Alonso’s deep Liverpool ties would prevent a move to Manchester United. Some argue that football has precedents of managers crossing rival lines, while others believe his Liverpool legend status could be a barrier. Regardless, the prospect of a high-profile coach becoming available has reignited discussion across punditry circles.
Betting implications
Short-term markets
Alonso’s free-agent status is likely to shorten his odds in “next manager” markets for top clubs, especially Manchester United. Punters considering short-term wagers should be cautious: if Alonso insists on waiting until summer, markets may quickly adjust and offer poorer value.
Summer markets and strategy
The clearest opportunity for value is in summer markets, particularly for Liverpool’s managerial market if a vacancy appears. For bettors: small speculative stakes on Alonso for next Manchester United manager could pay if bookmakers move early, but the safer approach is to wait for confirmed timelines or an official club vacancy before committing larger bets.
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
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