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When a team wins a record-equalling  title, you don’t expect changes to come so soon.

But football doesn’t always play by the rules of timing.

Liverpool fans were reminded of that this week as John Heitinga officially departed the club.

He spent just one season as Arne Slot’s assistant, yet his impact was clearly felt as the Reds powered their way to another championship.

Now, just weeks before pre-season kicks off in early July, the search for a new assistant is on.

It’s not just about filling a vacant seat on the bench.

Slot’s backroom must be strong, trusted, and aligned with his vision.

That’s especially key with a new manager trying to stamp his identity on a club as big as Liverpool.

The coaching group needs more than just football IQ—they need chemistry and continuity.

Slot had hoped Heitinga would stay a little longer.

Speaking before the Ajax appointment was confirmed, Slot said, “If Ajax would be smart, they would consider him.

He is ready to take on a job like that.”

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

But Ajax made their move, and Heitinga—who started his career there and was interim boss in early 2023—couldn’t say no.

With Heitinga now Ajax head coach, Liverpool’s options for replacements are interesting and very specific.

According to Ian Doyle of Liverpool Echo, the first is Marino Pusic, a familiar face to Slot.

Pusic worked as his assistant at both AZ Alkmaar and Feyenoord.

He’s available after leaving Shakhtar Donetsk this month, where he just won a domestic double and followed it up with the Ukrainian Cup this season.

Next is Etienne Reijnen, the current Feyenoord assistant.

He was initially set to join Slot at Liverpool last summer but couldn’t get a work permit in time.

Lastly, Dirk Kuyt is being considered.

The former Liverpool forward is expected to leave his post at Beerschot after their relegation from the Belgian top flight.

It’s a shortlist filled with both proven chemistry and emotional ties.

But the club must move quickly.

Pre-season is coming fast.

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