Liverpool’s Potential Next Boss: 11 Managers Tipped to Succeed Arne

A few months ago, the notion of Arne Slot coming under pressure at Liverpool would have seemed far-fetched. Fresh off a Premier League title in his first season and strengthened by major signings such as Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz, and Hugo Ekitike, the club appeared stable. However, Liverpool’s fortunes have shifted dramatically. The team has suffered eight defeats in their last 11 matches in all competitions, including seven losses in their last eight league games. A damaging 3–0 defeat to Nottingham Forest has left them 11th in the table and eight points behind leaders Arsenal, despite playing a game more. While the board publicly maintains its support for Slot, continued poor results could quickly alter that stance.

As pressure grows, several managerial candidates have emerged. Steven Gerrard, currently without a club, has expressed his openness to a new challenge. Despite mixed spells at Aston Villa and Al-Ettifaq, his deep emotional connection to Liverpool makes him an attractive option for fans, and a short-term appointment cannot be ruled out. Cesc Fàbregas, meanwhile, is building a promising coaching career at Como, though his co-ownership complicates any potential mid-season move.

Zinedine Zidane stands out as one of the most compelling names on the list. With multiple La Liga titles and three consecutive Champions League triumphs at Real Madrid, he offers unmatched pedigree. Out of management since 2021, Zidane has spoken fondly of Anfield and could be enticed by a return to top-level coaching in England. Mauricio Pochettino also brings extensive experience but appears unlikely to depart the U.S. national team ahead of the World Cup. Xavi, now a free agent after leaving Barcelona, remains admired for his possession-based philosophy, though questions persist about his suitability for Liverpool’s current squad profile.

Other candidates offer varying degrees of feasibility. Marco Silva has impressed at Fulham but lacks elite-level success, while Julian Nagelsmann, long respected for his tactical innovation, is effectively unavailable after extending his contract with Germany until 2028. Unai Emery’s strong work at Aston Villa makes him a credible name, though both his fit at Liverpool and Villa’s willingness to release him pose obstacles.

Among the more realistic possibilities is Oliver Glasner. Since taking charge of Crystal Palace in 2024, he has revitalized the team, winning the FA Cup and Community Shield while earning widespread respect for his tactical clarity. With his contract expiring at season’s end and uncertainty surrounding his future, he represents a practical option. Andoni Iraola also continues to draw attention for his transformative work at Bournemouth, positioning himself as another rising candidate. And, in the most dramatic scenario, Jürgen Klopp—who has insisted he would never manage another English club—remains a theoretical option, making him the bookmakers’ favourite. A return so soon would be extraordinary, but the possibility cannot be completely di®smissed.