Liverpool won't get a replay, is Xabi Alonso the next big thing?

Football hot topics: VAR scrutiny after Liverpool's disallowed goal, Xavi's 100 games at Barcelona, Xabi Alonso for Real Madrid job?

Xabi Alonso is doing great work at Bayern Leverkusen but will Real Madrid snap him up at the end of the season? (Photo credit: Sky Sports)

It’s the end of the week with many football hot topics across top leagues and continental championships; we look at three key talking points ahead of another packed weekend of games.

Liverpool won’t get a replay, but VAR will be better.

Jurgen Klopp’s request that the game between Liverpool and Tottenham be replayed after the PGMOL apologized for the “human error” that led to Luis Diaz’s goal being disallowed last weekend will not stand.

The Kops have a case against the referee body, but how many games would be replayed if Liverpool’s request is granted? One thing is certain: the referees and their corresponding VAR will sit tight as the microscope is now on them. Will they indeed be better?

Xavi hits 100 games in the dugout

It was never in doubt; his playing days suggested what to expect from him if he ever takes to the dugout, and the former Barcelona and Spanish international Xavi Hernandes has not disappointed anyone in that regard.

100 games in charge at Barcelona with a league title to show for it, the likes of Ansu Fati and Antoine Griezmann may be casualties of his style, but results will always tilt the argument in favor of the manager. 100 down, how many to go?

Is Xabi Alonso preparing for the Real Madrid job?

Former Real Madrid and Spain international Xabi Alonso is sailing the ship of Bayern Leverkusen, and it’s looking like he’s the real deal.

Alonso’s Bayern Leverkusen sits on top of the German Bundesliga and also in a commanding position in their Europa League group; his style of play is mesmerizing, and the fans fear his exit to replace Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid at the end of the season.