Next Liverpool Manager: 16 Names Tipped to Replace Arne Slot if He Departs
At the start of the summer, suggesting Arne Slot would already be feeling the heat at Liverpool would have been met with disbelief from most supporters. After all, the Dutchman had just guided the Reds to the Premier League title in his first season, and the club backed him heavily in the transfer market, bringing in elite talents such as Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike.
Football moves fast, however, and Liverpool’s fortunes have shifted dramatically. Far from resembling last season’s champions, the Reds now sit fourth in the table, trailing leaders Arsenal by 14 points. While there is no indication that Slot is currently under pressure behind the scenes, continued poor results could quickly change that narrative.
If the worst were to happen and Slot were relieved of his duties, Liverpool would not be short of options. Sky Bet have released their odds on potential successors, highlighting the leading contenders to take over at Anfield.
16. Ange Postecoglou (25/1)
Postecoglou’s brief and difficult spell at Nottingham Forest, which ended after 39 days and eight winless games, may raise eyebrows, but it has not completely ended speculation around him. His attacking philosophy and high defensive line, which only narrowly avoided relegation with his Europa League-winning Tottenham side, could prove divisive at Anfield. For many, appointing him would feel like embracing chaos rather than stability.
15. Mauricio Pochettino (25/1)
Currently in charge of the United States national team, Pochettino boasts extensive Premier League experience from spells at Southampton, Tottenham and Chelsea, as well as domestic success with PSG. However, with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon and his focus firmly on international football, a return to England appears highly unlikely for now.
14. Diego Simeone (16/1)
A true Atletico Madrid icon, Simeone has been at the helm since 2011, overseeing more than 750 matches. While his tactical acumen is unquestioned, his defence-first philosophy may not align with the attacking traditions Liverpool fans expect. Still, his pedigree makes him a credible outsider.
13. Brendan Rodgers (16/1)
Out of work following a strained second spell at Celtic, a return for Rodgers would be a surprising twist. His previous tenure at Liverpool produced a title challenge in 2013/14 but little else of note. Despite the improved squad at his disposal today, many supporters would prefer to leave that chapter firmly in the past.
12. Cesc Fàbregas (16/1)
Fàbregas has emerged as one of Europe’s most exciting young coaches, guiding Como to an unlikely sixth-place position in Serie A. While his tactical innovation is impressive, the Liverpool job may arrive too soon in his managerial journey, especially given the pressure surrounding the role.
11. Xavi Hernández (14/1)
A serial winner as both player and coach, Xavi has lifted league titles in Spain and Qatar and is currently unattached. His possession-based philosophy would likely be popular at Anfield, and he has previously expressed openness to managing in England. Concerns remain, however, over his limited experience at the very highest managerial level.
10. Simone Inzaghi (14/1)
After leading Inter Milan to a Champions League final, Inzaghi moved to Saudi Arabia in 2025. Known for balancing pragmatism with attacking threat, he could address Liverpool’s defensive frailties. While an early exit from the Middle East would be surprising, a call from Anfield could be tempting.
9. Marco Silva (14/1)
Silva has earned praise for his work at Fulham and is well-versed in Premier League football. That said, he lacks experience managing at the elite level, and his potential appointment would likely divide opinion among the Liverpool fanbase. His contract situation could make a move feasible, but doubts would linger.
8. Zinedine Zidane (12/1)
One of football’s greatest-ever figures, Zidane brings instant authority and a proven winning mentality. His achievements at Real Madrid — including three consecutive Champions League titles — speak for themselves. Currently out of work and an admirer of Anfield, a return to management with Liverpool could be an ideal fit.
7. Unai Emery (10/1)
Emery has rebuilt his reputation impressively at Aston Villa after success in European competitions with Sevilla and Villarreal. Despite his experience, questions remain about whether his pragmatic approach suits a club with Liverpool’s ambitions. Villa would also be reluctant to lose him mid-season.
6. Julian Nagelsmann (10/1)
Previously considered as Klopp’s successor, Nagelsmann stayed on as Germany’s national coach and signed an extension through Euro 2028. Renowned for his tactical intelligence, he would be well-equipped to manage Liverpool’s attacking riches, but his contract makes a move highly improbable.
5. Steven Gerrard (10/1)
A Liverpool legend, Gerrard is currently available and has spoken openly about wanting his next role. While his managerial record has been mixed, his emotional connection to the club could make him a popular short-term solution. His odds have shortened significantly, suggesting growing speculation.
4. Oliver Glasner (6/1)
Glasner has revitalised Crystal Palace since arriving in 2024, leading them to FA Cup glory and a Community Shield win over Liverpool. With his contract nearing its end, his availability makes him one of the most realistic candidates should the job become vacant.
3. Andoni Iraola (6/1)
Iraola has transformed Bournemouth into an energetic and dangerous Premier League side, despite losing key players. His progressive style and impressive results have drawn widespread admiration, and a move to a bigger club feels inevitable.
2. Xabi Alonso (10/3)
Reports from Madrid suggest Alonso may be struggling to maintain harmony at Real Madrid, potentially opening the door for Liverpool to reignite their interest. After his historic Bundesliga title with Bayer Leverkusen, his rapid rise marks him as one of Europe’s brightest coaching prospects.
1. Jürgen Klopp (10/3)
A romantic and headline-grabbing possibility, Klopp remains deeply connected to Liverpool after nine transformative seasons. He has not ruled out a return and recently admitted that if he ever managed in England again, it would only be with Liverpool. While a swift comeback seems unlikely, bookmakers have installed him as joint-favourite.