Liverpool is assessing its options to replace Jürgen Klopp after the manager decided to step down at the end of the season. Pep Guardiola is a fan of one of them.
Liverpool is considering potential candidates to replace Jürgen Klopp as its manager at the end of the season after the German announced he would be stepping down. One of the names that has caught their attention is Rúben Amorim, who is highly admired by Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola. Amorim, the current coach of Sporting, is known for his dynamic and attack-minded approach to the game.
Since taking charge in March 2020, Amorim has achieved remarkable success with Sporting. He led the team to their first league title in 19 years in the 2020-2021 season and followed it up with a League Cup triumph. Under his guidance, Sporting also reached the Champions League last 16 for only the second time in its history. The 39-year-old coach has generated a lot of hype and excitement during his time in Lisbon, generating plenty of praise for his genius tactics and man management.
Guardiola himself has praised Amorim. This time last year, he said: “From my point of view, their coach is one of the best at the moment.” This high regard for Amorim is also reflected in his release clause, which stands at $22m (£17m/€20m). However, Portuguese outlet Record reports suggest that Liverpool is not deterred by this price tag.
While Amorim’s future remains uncertain, he has made it clear that if Sporting fails to win any titles this season, he will leave the club. This statement could potentially make his release clause irrelevant. Liverpool is not short of other options either, with Xabi Alonso, Roberto De Zerbi from Brighton, and Julian Nagelsmann, the current Germany head coach, good options to consider as well.
Amorim’s mentality and style of play align with what Liverpool looks for in a manager. His dominant attacking approach and emphasis on high-pressing tactics would likely appeal to the Anfield decision-makers. Additionally, his strong communication skills and leadership qualities make him an attractive candidate to fill the void left by Klopp’s departure.
Paulo Meneses, the head of recruitment at Braga, believes that Amorim is destined to join a top club in one of the major European leagues. He describes Amorim as an ambitious coach who is driven by the desire to win major trophies. With his leadership abilities and quality work, it is no doubt that he will make a name for himself in European football in the coming years.
Liverpool.com says: Amorim should definitely be someone that Liverpool considers. He plays attractive football and has done well with Sporting CP. But Xabi Alonso would offer more of an aura. Amorim is talented but Alonso ticks some different boxes. Both would be a gamble for different reasons.
