Arne Slot is reportedly planning a significant reshaping of his backroom team at Liverpool FC ahead of the 2026/27 season, with moves in place to strengthen his coaching staff if he remains in charge.
The Liverpool head coach is said to be targeting either — or potentially both — of his trusted former colleagues John Heitinga and Etiënne Reijnen as part of a wider staff overhaul aimed at improving the club’s long-term structure.
Heitinga set for possible return
Heitinga, who previously worked under Slot, is understood to be a key priority for a return to Anfield.
During his previous spell alongside Slot, he earned strong praise for:
- Detailed defensive coaching
- Extra one-to-one sessions with players
- His clear communication and leadership on the training ground
His impact reportedly left a positive impression on the squad, with several players valuing his hands-on approach.
Reijnen also in frame
Alongside Heitinga, Reijnen remains firmly in Slot’s long-term plans.
A trusted member of Slot’s coaching network from their time in the Netherlands, Reijnen was originally expected to join Liverpool earlier in Slot’s tenure. However, that move was blocked due to work permit complications, delaying his arrival.
Despite that setback, he is still viewed internally as:
- A key tactical support figure
- A long-term coaching ally of Slot
- A strong fit for Liverpool’s development model
Part of a wider rebuild
The planned additions would form part of a broader effort to refine Liverpool’s coaching structure rather than overhaul it entirely.
The focus is expected to be on:
- Increasing tactical detail in training
- Strengthening defensive organisation
- Improving player development pathways
Slot is believed to value continuity but also sees room for evolution within his staff setup.
Dependent on Slot’s future
Crucially, these plans are conditional.
They rely on Slot:
- Remaining as Liverpool head coach beyond the current campaign
- Retaining backing from the club’s hierarchy
- Continuing his long-term project at Anfield
Final thought
While Liverpool’s focus remains on the present season, planning for the future is already taking shape behind the scenes.
If Slot stays, it could mark not just a continuation of his project — but a refinement of it, built around familiar faces he trusts and has worked successfully with before.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
The Kopite View 
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