“Absolutely” — a Liverpool legend from the Rafael Benítez era is being tipped as a potential future Reds manager.

A former Liverpool player from the Rafael Benítez era has emerged as a potential candidate to manage the club in the future.

Several key figures from Benítez’s time at Anfield between 2004 and 2010 have moved into coaching, with Xabi Alonso leading the way. Others such as Steven Gerrard, Robbie Keane, Javier Mascherano and Álvaro Arbeloa have also taken up roles on the touchline in recent years.

Now, another ex-Red from that period has been tipped for a possible managerial return to Merseyside.

Torres tipped for future Liverpool role

Fernando Torres is currently managing Atlético Madrid’s B team in Spain’s third division, and his former international teammate Fernando Llorente believes he could one day take charge at Liverpool.

Speaking to Hajper (via the Daily Express), Llorente said the idea of Torres becoming Liverpool manager is “definite.” He highlighted how Torres has taken a different route compared to Cesc Fàbregas, choosing to build experience gradually through youth coaching.

Llorente added that Torres’ outstanding playing career, deep understanding of the game, and patient development suggest he has the potential to become a top-level coach when the time is right.

Progress in coaching so far

Torres is enjoying a solid campaign with Atlético’s B side, who are currently third in their league and pushing for promotion via the play-offs.

While his overall record appears modest, it reflects a team that is tough to beat and well-organised defensively:

Matches: 71

Wins: 29

Draws: 25

Losses: 17

Goals scored: 94

Goals conceded: 69

Win rate: 40.8%

Despite his calm and clinical image as a player, Torres has also shown a more intense side on the sidelines, including a heated touchline clash with former Liverpool teammate Arbeloa during a youth match a few years ago.

Could he return to Anfield?

A future return to Liverpool as manager would certainly be a compelling storyline. However, it may still be some way off. At 42, Torres has yet to manage above Spain’s third tier and likely needs more experience before becoming a realistic option.

Meanwhile, Alonso continues to be strongly linked as a potential successor to Arne Slot, having already built an impressive résumé with clubs like Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid.

Whether Torres can reach similar heights in coaching remains to be seen—but his journey will be one to watch closely.