Liverpool’s recent addition to their coaching staff, John Heitinga, is a familiar face to Everton fans due to his playing career there. However, the 40-year-old has transitioned into coaching and has now joined Arne Slot’s team at Liverpool.
Heitinga’s coaching journey began at Ajax, where he spent seven years coaching in the youth ranks before eventually becoming caretaker manager. This experience led him to join West Ham as an assistant manager in 2023. However, with David Moyes leaving this summer, Heitinga decided to move on and accept the opportunity to join Liverpool’s coaching staff as an assistant coach.
Dutch football journalist Elko Born provides some insight into why Slot and Liverpool were attracted to Heitinga. Born believes that Heitinga’s youth and recent playing career are important factors. His experience playing in England and the Premier League gives him valuable knowledge and familiarity with the city of Liverpool. However, it is not just his tactical skills that impressed Slot; it is his ability to connect with players and build relationships. Heitinga’s youth and interpersonal skills make him a valuable addition to Liverpool’s coaching staff.
When discussing Heitinga’s rise to becoming Ajax’s caretaker manager, Born highlights his leadership role within the squad during his final stretch as a player. After retiring, Heitinga quickly started working in Ajax’s youth academy, making his ambition to become a manager evident. While he did have a stint as caretaker manager, it did not work out as he had hoped. However, Born acknowledges that Heitinga did manage to make a positive impact during a difficult season for Ajax. Ultimately, though, it was not enough to secure a permanent position as the first team manager.
Born speculates whether Heitinga’s move to Liverpool could be a stepping stone for him, similar to Pep Lijnders. He suggests that Heitinga may have realized that he needs more experience as an assistant before taking on a senior leadership role as a manager. It is possible that Heitinga’s skill set is better suited to being an assistant coach, and Liverpool could be the perfect place for him to enhance his coaching abilities.
As for Heitinga’s characteristics as a coach, Born describes him as active and passionate on the sidelines. Heitinga’s recent retirement from football means he is emotionally invested in the game and his players, which can be a positive attribute for a coach or manager. His ability to relate to players and build relationships is where his true talents lie, rather than in the tactical aspects of being a manager.
In conclusion, John Heitinga’s addition to Liverpool’s coaching staff brings valuable experience, youth, and interpersonal skills. While his time as Ajax’s caretaker manager did not go as planned, his move to Liverpool could be a stepping stone in his coaching career. Heitinga’s passion and ability to connect with players make him a valuable asset to Arne Slot’s team.