Liverpool Football Club has meticulously curated a list of seven potential candidates as they embark on their quest to find a worthy successor to the esteemed manager, Jurgen Klopp. Sources reveal that while the club has initiated the preliminary stages of the hiring process, they are yet to delve into the formal proceedings.
In a surprising turn of events, Klopp disclosed his decision to depart from Liverpool at the end of January, sending shockwaves throughout the global football community.
In addition to the search for a new manager, Liverpool also have a vacant position for a sporting director, with insider information indicating the club’s preference to secure this role before fully committing to the manager hunt. Despite this, Liverpool has had ample time, two months to be precise, to meticulously examine potential replacements for Klopp since he confidentially shared his decision with them back in November.
Insider sources have disclosed to 90min that Xabi Alonso, currently at Bayer Leverkusen, emerges as the early frontrunner for the managerial role at Liverpool. However, his appointment is not guaranteed as the club continues its pursuit for a sporting director.
While Alonso expresses interest in returning to Liverpool as a manager, his primary focus remains on leading Bayer Leverkusen’s quest for their inaugural Bundesliga title. Leverkusen’s recent 3-0 victory against Bayern Munich has propelled them five points clear at the top of the league table, emphasizing Alonso’s dedication to his current role.
Alonso’s impressive managerial credentials have garnered attention not only from Liverpool but also from his former clubs. Real Madrid acknowledges that Carlo Ancelotti’s tenure won’t last forever, while Thomas Tuchel’s future at Bayern Munich remains uncertain despite his current security.
While Alonso could opt to continue his project at Bayer Leverkusen, insights suggest he recognizes the role of his squad’s quality in his success thus far. Leverkusen’s anticipated sale of key players in the upcoming transfer window could influence Alonso’s decision to join Liverpool sooner rather than later, especially with potential offers from Madrid or Bayern on the horizon.
Roberto De Zerbi of Brighton & Hove Albion and Germany’s national team coach, Julian Nagelsmann, are viable contenders for the managerial role at Liverpool. Tottenham Hotspur’s Ange Postecoglou, a lifelong Liverpool supporter, is also in the mix, although Spurs express confidence in retaining him. Sporting CP’s Ruben Amorim is esteemed by Liverpool’s higher-ups but is considered part of a broader search due to his limited top-five league experience. Internal discussions at Liverpool have also included Unai Emery of Aston Villa and Roger Schmidt of Benfica.
Despite initial speculation, Steven Gerrard’s managerial trajectory, which included a successful stint at Rangers, has veered him away from the running for Klopp’s replacement. Gerrard’s current position at Al Ettifaq in the Saudi Pro League eliminates him as a contender, although Liverpool would extend him the courtesy of an interview out of respect if he were to express interest.
