Arne Slot is set to break Liverpool tradition with a new job title as he edges towards replacing Jurgen Klopp at Anfield.
The Dutchman looks set to become Klopp’s replacement on Merseyside. The Reds have already struck an agreement with his current employers Feyenoord.
Liverpool will pay a record £9.4million for Slot’s services and he will become the first new face in the Anfield dugout for nine years – with Klopp joining the club back in 2015. However, his remit is set to look slightly different.
According to The Times, Slot is set to be appointed as the Reds’ head coach as opposed to manager – the job role that Klopp has held. That will see most of the 45-year-old’s work restricted to the training pitches.
Klopp was initially an influential figure in Liverpool’s coaching methods. But he has taken up more of an active role when it comes to transfers over recent years following the exit of Julian Ward.
Potential new boss Slot will report to new sporting director Richard Hughes, as well as Fenway Sports Groups newly-appointed CEO, the returning Michael Edwards. Meanwhile, Sipke Hulshoff and Ruben Peeters are reportedly set to join him on Merseyside. Liverpool will certainly hope that arrangement sees Slot a success at Anfield.
Speaking about his coaching philosophy, he said: “I want as many good football players as possible in the team and I want to make them work as hard as possible. I believe that when we work to perfect our habits every day, we have more chance to cut out luck.”
Before getting started, he already appears to have approval from outgoing boss Klopp. Asked about the prospect of Slot replacing him, the German replied: “I didn’t read anything but I was told that Arne said something.
“I am not involved in the process. What I like a lot about it is if he is the one then he wants to take the job — he’s desperate, excited, let’s go for it.
“I like the way his team play football and all the things I hear about him as a guy. Some people I know, know him, I don’t know him yet. Good coach, good guy. If he’s the solution for the club then I am more than happy. It’s not up to me to judge but it all sounds really good to me.”
Both Klopp and Slot will be hoping to end their stints with their current clubs positively. Feyenoord – winners of the Dutch Cup this season – can seal a Champions League spot over the final three games of the campaign.
Liverpool’s chances of winning the Premier League title are still alive heading into the final three games of the season but are fading fast.
