The Surprising Move to Liverpool
John Heitinga’s move to Liverpool as an assistant coach was unexpected for many. As a former player at Everton, a rival club in the same city, it seemed unlikely that he would join their coaching staff. However, talks had been ongoing for a while, and Heitinga’s reputation as a capable coach and his Dutch connection with head coach Arne Slot made the move a reality.
His Time as Caretaker Manager at Ajax
Heitinga took on the role of caretaker manager at Ajax in a challenging situation. The team was struggling under the previous coach, and Heitinga had to step in and save the season. While they were eliminated in Europe, Ajax won their first seven games in the Eredivisie under his leadership. However, they struggled to perform in big games, ultimately missing out on the title. Despite the mixed results, Heitinga’s appointment as head coach was seen as unfair by many Ajax supporters, who believed he was a victim of the chaos at the club.
Coaching Methods and Style of Football
Heitinga is known for being a direct and honest coach who values open communication with his players. Drawing from his playing experience, he understands the importance of individual improvement and clear player roles. He also emphasizes the collective aspect of the game, employing classic Ajax principles such as ball possession, high pressure, counter-pressing, and direct passing. His coaching style aligns with Arne Slot’s vision, which focuses on these principles and aims to implement them at Liverpool.
Impact at Ajax
Heitinga’s tenure at Ajax saw improvements in their style of play and stability. He implemented a build-up strategy from the back, leveraging his experience as a former defender. The team played more stable football and improved their positioning in possession. However, defensive organization remained a challenge, and implementing a new tactical plan midway through the season proved difficult. Given more time and a chance to prepare for a full season, Heitinga could have further implemented his ideas and solidified Ajax’s defensive structure.
His Sideline Presence
As a head coach, Heitinga is known for being very involved and passionate on the sidelines. He coaches fanatically and gives instructions to players when necessary. However, as an assistant coach at Liverpool, he understands his role and works in collaboration with the manager, providing instructions only when needed or requested. Heitinga’s passion and desire to win, which characterized him as a player, still shine through in his coaching approach.
In conclusion, John Heitinga’s move to Liverpool as an assistant coach may have been surprising, but his experience as a player and coach, as well as his Dutch connection with Arne Slot, made it a logical choice. His time at Ajax showed glimpses of his coaching potential, and his coaching methods and style of play align with Liverpool’s vision. While his impact at Ajax was limited due to the circumstances, he has the potential to make a significant contribution to Liverpool’s coaching staff and the team’s success.