Liverpool appoints new set piece coach

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Liverpool’s coaching staff has seen major changes this summer under Arne Slot’s leadership.

Giovanni van Bronckhorst, a former Feyenoord manager himself, joined as John Heitinga’s replacement after he left for Ajax.

Two key figures in the goalkeeping department, Fabian Otte and the legendary Brazilian goalkeeper Taffarel, have left to explore new opportunities.

Otte has taken up a role with Tottenham Hotspur, joining Thomas Frank’s revamped backroom team, while Taffarel announced his new position with the Brazil National Football Federation.

Meanwhile, Xavi Valero, who previously worked on Merseyside under Rafa Benitez, has returned to Anfield as the goalkeeping coach.

Liverpool also strengthened their development pathway with the arrival of Luiz Fernando Iubel from Atletico Mineiro as individual development lead coach.

The 36-year-old Brazilian’s appointment in August demonstrated the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent.

And it seems there is yet more shake-ups in the backroom staff.

The Training Ground Guru has reported that Liverpool FC has appointed Southampton’s Lewis Mahoney as their first specialist Set Piece Analyst.

Mahoney brings impressive credentials to Anfield, having established himself as a specialist in the field during his time at Southampton.

The 36-year-old holds a UEFA B License and graduated with First Class Honours in Sport Performance Analysis from Cardiff Metropolitan University.

The appointment sees Mahoney joining forces with Aaron Briggs, who has taken on the role of dedicated Set Piece Coach this season after previously serving as Individual Development Coach.

Briggs joined Liverpool’s coaching setup in July 2024, initially filling the gap left by Vitor Matos, but his responsibilities have evolved significantly to encompass set-piece planning and execution.

Mahoney’s appointment becomes even more crucial when considering Liverpool’s recent loss of James French, their highly regarded Opposition Analyst who specialized in set pieces.

French departed Anfield this summer after 13 years of service to join Manchester City as their dedicated Set Piece Coach.

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