As uncertainty continues surrounding Arne Slot’s future at Liverpool,attention is once again turning towards the impressive shortlist Liverpool previously considered as potential successors to Jürgen Klopp.
Before ultimately appointing Slot, Liverpool reportedly assessed a wide range of elite managerial candidates from across Europe.
That shortlist included:
- Ernesto Valverde
- Luciano Spalletti
- Sebastian Hoeneß
- Míchel Sánchez
- Rúben Amorim
- Roberto De Zerbi
- Julian Nagelsmann
- Andoni Iraola
- Simone Inzaghi
- Paulo Fonseca
One notable omission from any future Liverpool thinking now appears to be Xabi Alonso after reports that he has agreed to become the next manager of Chelsea.
That news has disappointed many Liverpool supporters who once dreamed of seeing Alonso eventually return to Anfield as manager.
At this stage, Champions League qualification appearing virtually secured has strengthened the possibility that Slot will remain in charge next season.
However, the pressure surrounding him has not disappeared.
Supporters remain frustrated by Liverpool’s passive style of play, defensive collapses and lack of consistency throughout a deeply disappointing campaign.
That means the discussion around potential alternatives continues to grow louder.
Some names on Liverpool’s previous shortlist would undoubtedly excite supporters more than others.
Andoni Iraola’s aggressive pressing football at Bournemouth has earned widespread admiration, while Julian Nagelsmann is still viewed by many as one of the brightest tactical minds in European football.
Rúben Amorim and Roberto De Zerbi were also heavily linked with Liverpool during the original search process.
Both managers are known for bold tactical systems and strong attacking identities — qualities many supporters feel Liverpool have lacked this season.
Meanwhile Sebastian Hoeneß continues to build a growing reputation in Germany, and Simone Inzaghi’s tactical achievements in European football have also attracted admiration across the continent.
Liverpool’s previous shortlist showed the club were looking carefully at a range of different profiles and footballing philosophies rather than focusing purely on one specific style.
Of course, none of this guarantees Liverpool are preparing to replace Slot immediately.
The current expectation still appears to be that he will remain in charge heading into next season.
But the existence of such an extensive previous shortlist shows Liverpool already possess a strong understanding of the alternative options available should the situation deteriorate further.
What happens next may depend heavily on the summer itself.
If Liverpool recruit well, rebuild confidence and improve performances quickly, Slot may yet stabilise the situation.
But if problems continue into next season, attention will inevitably return to the names Liverpool once seriously considered before appointing him.
And judging by the calibre of managers on that list, Liverpool would certainly not be short of ambitious alternatives if they ever decide change becomes necessary.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
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