Surprising Top 10 Revealed: Klopp Now Second-Longest Serving Manager
Liverpool fans have been treated to an incredible era under Jurgen Klopp’s leadership, and now it has been revealed that he is the second-longest serving manager in the Football League. This news comes after the dismissal of John Coleman as Accrington Stanley boss, which allowed Klopp to move up the ranks. But what is truly surprising about this revelation is the presence of some unexpected names in the top 10 list of longest-serving managers.
When it comes to Liverpool, the club has a rich history of managers who have stayed for sustained periods. The only real exception in recent times was Roy Hodgson, but apart from that, the tradition of long-serving managers has been upheld since Bill Shankly’s time. This makes Klopp’s position in the top 10 even more admirable.
Taking a closer look at the list, it becomes evident that not every club shares Liverpool’s philosophy when it comes to managers. Some clubs have a tendency to change managers frequently, resulting in surprising names occupying the top spots. Klopp now stands as the second-longest serving manager among the 92 current Football League clubs, thanks to his nearly eight and a half years at Liverpool.
Hot on Klopp’s heels is Pep Guardiola, who has been at Manchester City for approaching eight years. However, the title of longest-serving manager goes to Simon Weaver, the manager of Harrogate Town. Weaver has held his position since May 2009, which is over six years longer than Klopp’s tenure at Liverpool. It is worth noting that Weaver took over the Yorkshire club at just 31 years old when they were in the National League North, the sixth tier of English football. Harrogate Town has since been promoted to League Two, where they currently sit in 13th place.
While Klopp may not take the top spot on the list before leaving Liverpool in the summer, it is still an impressive feat to be second on the list. The stability and success he has brought to the club are unparalleled. With two League Cups, a league title, a European Cup, and an FA Cup under his belt, Klopp has truly made an impact during his time at Anfield.
Looking further down the list, it becomes clear that some clubs have a short-sighted approach when it comes to managers. Mikel Arteta, despite being at Arsenal for just four years, ranks sixth on the list. This highlights the lack of patience shown by some clubs in giving managers time to build and develop their teams. David Moyes is another example, occupying the spot below Arteta with six fewer days in the West Ham job.
Thomas Frank, the manager of Brentford, and Nigel Clough, the former-Red and current Mansfield manager, also feature in the top 10. These unexpected names serve as a reminder of how trigger-happy clubs are becoming in their pursuit of short-term success.
It is interesting to note that Eddie Howe, who was once considered one of the brightest managerial prospects in English football, ranks 14th on the list. Despite being at Newcastle for less than two and a half years, Howe finds himself outside the top 10. This is another example of how clubs are quick to make changes without giving managers enough time to make an impact.
As we reflect on the top 10 longest-serving managers in the Football League, it is clear that Jurgen Klopp’s position as the second-longest serving manager is a testament to his success and the stability he has brought to Liverpool. While other clubs may opt for a revolving door policy with their managers, Liverpool’s commitment to long-term leadership has paid off. As Klopp prepares to leave Anfield in the summer, he leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.