Restructuring at Liverpool Continues with New Goalkeeping Appointment
Liverpool Football Club has been undergoing significant restructuring following the departure of Jurgen Klopp, with FSG’s CEO of Football, Michael Edwards, making several key appointments. The latest addition to the team is Hans Leitert, who will take on the role of head of global goalkeeping.
Leitert’s first task will be to find a new head goalkeeping coach for Liverpool after the departure of John Achterberg. Achterberg, who spent 15 years at the club, will now join Steven Gerrard at Al-Ettifaq. Alongside Achterberg, assistant goalkeeping coach Jack Robinson will also be leaving this summer.
However, one coach who will remain with the club is Claudio Taffarel, the legendary Brazilian goalkeeper. Taffarel has been an integral part of the coaching staff since November 2021.
In terms of the playing department, Alisson is reportedly content to continue his career at Anfield. However, Caoimhin Kelleher has recently expressed his desire to become a first-choice goalkeeper, whether that be at Liverpool or elsewhere. Meanwhile, Adrian is expected to leave Liverpool this summer, as he has expressed his desire to return to La Liga after 11 seasons in the Premier League.
But who exactly is Hans Leitert? The 51-year-old Austrian has been appointed by Michael Edwards after working as a freelance goalkeeping consultant for Liverpool over the past six years. Prior to that, Leitert held positions as the first-team goalkeeping coach at Panathinaikos, Recreativo de Huelva, and Tottenham between 2005 and 2009. He then moved on to more senior roles at UEFA, FIFA, and Red Bull Global Soccer.
In February 2018, Klopp spoke about Leitert’s role within the club, explaining that he provides advice to the scouting department but doesn’t have decision-making authority. Klopp emphasized that the club has dedicated individuals for scouting and goalkeeping in various countries, and Leitert plays a crucial role in gathering information.
Leitert’s notable achievements include authoring the book “The Art of Goalkeeping or the Seven Principles of the Masters.” This demonstrates his expertise and knowledge in the field, further solidifying his credentials.
As Liverpool continues to reshape their team and coaching staff, the appointment of Hans Leitert as head of global goalkeeping highlights the club’s commitment to maintaining excellence between the posts. With his experience and expertise, Leitert is well-positioned to identify and recruit top talent to ensure Liverpool’s goalkeeping department remains strong for years to come.