Four Top Contenders to Succeed Arne Slot as Liverpool Manager
Liverpool’s season took another troubling turn on Wednesday as they suffered a 3-0 home defeat to Crystal Palace — their fifth consecutive loss in domestic competitions.
Arne Slot’s side had begun the campaign in superb form, winning their opening five league fixtures, but now head into this weekend’s clash with Aston Villa desperate to avoid a fifth straight Premier League defeat.
It marks a dramatic decline for a team that cruised to the league title last season and spent £450 million on new signings over the summer. Big-money arrivals Florian Wirtz (£116 million) and Alexander Isak (£125 million) have both struggled to adapt, while Liverpool’s defensive fragility has been repeatedly exposed.
Jurgen Klopp
Klopp, currently serving as Red Bull’s Head of Global Soccer, remains the standout candidate to return. Adored by supporters, he guided Liverpool to every major trophy and ended their 30-year wait for a league title.
In a recent Diary of a CEO podcast appearance with Steven Bartlett, Klopp was asked about a possible comeback.
“I said I will never coach another team in England,” he replied. “That means if it’s Liverpool, yeah — theoretically. I don’t even know exactly what it would take to return. I love what I’m doing right now.”
Oliver Glasner
Crystal Palace’s midweek triumph marked their third win over Liverpool this season under Glasner. The Austrian coach boasts a strong track record, having won the Europa League with Eintracht Frankfurt before delivering Palace’s first-ever major trophy with the FA Cup.
Despite being under contract until 2026, Glasner has expressed frustration with the club’s transfer dealings. He could also look to bring players with him to Anfield — including captain Marc Guehi, whose current deal expires next summer.
Andoni Iraola
Since joining AFC Bournemouth in 2023, Iraola has earned widespread praise for his impact. Last season, he led the Cherries to their best-ever Premier League finish — ninth with 56 points.
Even after losing his goalkeeper and three defenders in the summer, Bournemouth have started strongly and currently sit second after nine matches. His attacking, high-intensity football would fit well with Liverpool’s traditional style.
Zinedine Zidane
Zidane has been without a managerial post since leaving Real Madrid for the second time in 2021. During his time in Spain, he won three consecutive Champions League titles and successfully managed a squad of world-class players.
He has previously spoken fondly of Liverpool and described Anfield as one of his favourite stadiums, though his limited English could be a barrier. While expected to take over the French national team after the next World Cup, a strong offer from Liverpool could entice him back into club management.
