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Liverpool has confirmed Arne Slot's assistant coach John Heitinga has left the club to take up a role as Ajax's head coach.

Liverpool.com reported exclusively on Wednesday that a deal had been agreed between the 41-year-old and Ajax to take charge of the club, with the news confirmed on Saturday.

In a statement, Liverpool said: "Liverpool FC can confirm John Heitinga is to depart the club to take up the role of Ajax head coach.

"The 41-year-old leaves the Reds after one season in the backroom team, operating as assistant coach to Arne Slot.

He now assumes a position in charge of former club Ajax in his native Netherlands.

"John leaves with our gratitude and appreciation for his role in our 2024-25 Premier League title win."

Heitinga joined Liverpool last summer along as one of Slot's two assistants, along with Sipke Hulshoff.

It means the Reds head coach will be on the lookout for a replacement, with ex-forward Dirk Kuyt mentioned as a possible option.

Heitinga, who played for Ajax during his distinguished career, took charge of the first team on an interim basis in 2023, but Dutch giants opted against offering him the job on a full-time basis.

Now, after a year coaching at West Ham United and Liverpool respectively, he is back in Amsterdam.

"I am incredibly excited to start," the former defender told Ajax's website.

"The last years in England have done me a lot of good.

I've been able to develop further alongside David Moyes and Arne Slot, while also getting a behind-the-scenes look at two major clubs.

WI’m ready to continue as a head coach and I'm honoured to be given that opportunity at Ajax."

Liverpool.com understands Heitinga was outlined as a possible candidate after Erik ten Hag made it clear he would not be interested in a return to the club.

Go Ahead Eagles boss Paul Simonis was also considered for the role, but Ajax felt Heitinga's experience with the club made him the preferred option.

He has signed a two-year deal and has appointed Marcel Keizer as his assistant.

His previous stint in charge began superbly with seven straight wins, but a poor end to the campaign meant Ajax

Speaking before the end of the season, Slot implied Heitinga is ready to take over as a senior coach.

"If Ajax would be smart they would consider him,” the Liverpool boss said.

If John is smart, he would stay here one more season.”


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