Liverpool’s search for a new manager to replace Jurgen Klopp took another big twist last night.
Long seen as the favourite to take the baton from Klopp, former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso reportedly now won’t be considered for the position.
Right from the moment Jurgen announced his decision to leave, Alonso had been touted as the right man for the job. However, Bayer Leverkusen had always appeared confident of keeping the Spanish coach, and that now looks like being exactly what happens.
Although Liverpool have always been said to be assessing other candidates, that does leave them in a pickle. Alonso was by far and away the most natural looking fit.
Nevertheless, there are options out there. Ruben Amorim has the potential to be an even better coach than Alonso, while Roberto De Zerbi is reportedly on the list, too. And according to journalist Ben Jacobs on X, there’s also a third manager for Reds fans to be aware of.
Three horse race for Liverpool job
With Alonso now out of the running, Amorim would feel like the best option for Liverpool. Failing that, De Zerbi obviously has his supporters, too.
And yet, there’s a nagging feeling that either would be a slightly underwhelming appointment. As a result, Reds fans will be slightly relieved to see another name in the mix. Whether he’s any more suitable, we’ll let you decide.
“Bit more on Liverpool’s managerial search. Shortlisting using data began last year with several candidates looked at,” writes Jacobs.
“Managers judged not just on whether they are football, strategic and personality fits, but based on the budgets and models they worked within and their man management skills. Attitude and involvement in recruitment seen as important.
“Xabi Alonso, Ruben Amorim, Roberto De Zerbi and Julian Nagelsmann all scored highly. Data used for legwork, but Liverpool always wanted to finalise structure before narrowing down the shortlist and interviewing.
“Appointing Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes has allowed them to move forward. And Hughes can lead the search to replace Jurgen Klopp despite not officially starting until June 1. Bournemouth comfortable with this. All parties transparent.”
Who is Julian Nagelsmann
Had Liverpool’s search been taking place two or three years ago, you can bet Nagelsmann’s name would be more towards the top of their list.
The German was on an upward trajectory since taking over at Hoffenheim as a 28-year-old. A successful spell at RB Leipzig then led him to being named as Bayern Munich manager in 2023.
But things didn’t work out so well for the now 36-year-old Nagelsmann. Given how Thomas Tuchel has succeeded him since, Bayern may now regret firing the young coach. There’s no question that he didn’t quite live up to expectations, though.
Now in charge of the German national team, Nagelsmann has a contract that runs only until the end of this summer’s Euros. That may ultimately count against him here, as Liverpool will want someone to start work as soon as possible. Still, he’ll certainly be more attractive to the Reds now than he was yesterday.