Replacing Unsung Figure Essential for Preserving Klopp’s Legacy: FSG’s Crucial Task
Jurgen Klopp’s resignation from Liverpool has left Fenway Sports Group (FSG) facing a pivotal summer as they must find not only a new manager but also a new sporting director. While Klopp’s departure dominates the headlines, the departure of elite development coach Vitor Matos has gone under the radar, but it is a crucial position that needs to be adequately replaced.
Liverpool confirmed that Jorg Schmadtke would also be leaving the club shortly after Klopp’s decision was made public. In addition to Schmadtke, assistant managers Pepijn Lijnders and Peter Krawietz will be going their separate ways. The departure of Vitor Matos, the elite development coach, has received little attention but is equally important for preserving Klopp’s legacy.
The role of elite development coach is unique and not present in every club. It has played a crucial role in Klopp’s success at Anfield. The position acts as a link between the academy and the first team, with the main responsibility being the formation of a “Talent Group.” This idea was initiated by Lijnders during his tenure as the elite development coach from 2015 to 2018. The Talent Group consists of young players who regularly train under the guidance of the first-team staff at Melwood. Trent Alexander-Arnold was one of the first players included in this group, which ultimately led to his debut in 2016.
When Vitor Matos took over the role from Lijnders in 2019, he continued to maintain the ethos and close relationship between the academy and senior staff. Matos worked closely with academy coaches and senior staff to ensure a cohesive link between the two entities. Klopp’s commitment to rewarding youth has been paramount throughout his tenure, with 40 academy players making their first-team debut under his guidance.
Matos’ influence is evident in the current crop of young talents at Liverpool. Players such as Jarell Quansah, Conor Bradley, Ben Doak, Stefan Bajcetic, and Kaide Gordon have all benefited from Matos’ guidance. Matos played a crucial role in introducing Klopp to Bajcetic, who the manager immediately identified as a long-term No. 6. Matos is known for his extensive knowledge of players and coaches, earning him the nickname “Vitorpedia” among the first-team staff.
Beyond his role in promoting youth, Matos has also provided tactical input to Klopp and Lijnders. He regularly leads training sessions at the AXA Training Centre, further showcasing his importance to the coaching staff. Lijnders has described Matos as the “most special and loyal coach” he has ever met, emphasizing his impact on the team’s success.
Replacing Matos will be a priority for Liverpool this summer, but it will be a complicated appointment. The new elite development coach must align with the principles and philosophy of the incoming manager, as FSG is expected to prioritize youth development when selecting Klopp’s successor. Failing to find the right replacement could jeopardize almost a decade of dedicated work and leave young talents in limbo.
It remains to be seen if Matos will be replaced from within the club, perhaps with Nick Marshall, assistant academy director, stepping up. Regardless, FSG must make a decision that preserves the lasting legacy of Klopp’s reign and ensures the continued success of Liverpool.