Liverpool’s search for a new manager has taken several twists and turns since Jurgen Klopp’s resignation. Initially, Xabi Alonso was the frontrunner for the job, but the club remained tight-lipped about rumors, and it came as less of a surprise when he decided to stay at Bayer Leverkusen. Another early favorite, Roberto De Zerbi from Brighton, is now reportedly not under consideration.
Recently, Julian Nagelsmann extended his contract as Germany manager, ruling him out of the running. Former Bayern Munich boss Niko Kovac also dismissed claims of being in contention. The current favorite is Ruben Amorim from Sporting CP, but Liverpool is determined to be “brave over popular” in their choice, according to David Ornstein from The Athletic.
Ornstein suggests that Amorim is not a guaranteed choice for the job, indicating that no decision has been made yet. However, Liverpool’s approach of being “brave over popular” could lead them to consider unexpected candidates. The club’s data-led search, with input from director of research William Spearman and new arrivals Michael Edwards (CEO of Football) and Richard Hughes (sporting director), may lead them to unconventional options like Bournemouth’s Gary O’Neil. O’Neil has emerged as the fourth-favorite among bookmakers, but doubts remain about his qualifications.
In recent days, odds have shortened for Feyenoord boss Arne Slot, while Thomas Tuchel, Unai Emery, and Vitor Pereira are also considered potential contenders. Sources in Portugal claim that Amorim is the primary candidate and that talks have progressed with his representatives. However, the key takeaway from Ornstein’s update is that Liverpool is keeping their new manager pursuit under wraps, revealing very little about their plans.