Five Candidates Considered to Replace Arne Slot as Liverpool Coach

Liverpool has announced the immediate exit of Arne Slot and initiated formal procedures to appoint a suitable replacement to lead the team in the upcoming phase.

This report highlights the five leading candidates considered for the Liverpool head coach position.

Andoni Iraola's Profile and Suitability

The Spanish coach Andoni Iraola, aged 43, tops the list after delivering impressive performances with Bournemouth in the English Premier League. Iraola successfully transformed the "Cherries" into a formidable side, guiding them to qualify for the Europa League for the first time in the club's history. He declared in April his intention to leave the club at the end of the season.

Iraola's coaching philosophy emphasizes high pressing and organized attacking play, traits that align with Liverpool's traditional identity. This compatibility makes him an appealing choice for the club's management, which seeks a coach combining modern tactics with immediate results.

Experience of Luis Enrique

Spanish manager Luis Enrique, 56, stands as the most ready candidate to succeed Slot, given his decorated career and top-level experience. Enrique led Barcelona to a historic double, winning both the domestic league and the Champions League in 2015. Subsequently, he moved to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), turning them into a dominant European force by securing three consecutive French league titles and winning the Champions League in the latest season.

Should PSG defend their European crown, Enrique would be fully prepared to take on a new challenge in the Premier League. His combination of an attacking philosophy and ability to manage star players positions him as the ideal candidate to restore Liverpool to championship status.

Oliver Glasner's Achievements

Austrian coach Oliver Glasner, 51, is a prominent name among available managers after departing Crystal Palace in January. He concluded his tenure there with historic accomplishments, leading the "Eagles" to their first major trophy, the FA Cup, last season. More recently, he secured the UEFA Europa Conference League title, marking his first continental triumph.

Glasner brings extensive experience from German and English football, along with a proven track record in player development and delivering results in high-stakes matches. These credentials make him a strong contender for the role of returning Liverpool to title contention.

Sebastian Hoeness and the German School

If Liverpool's management prefers a return to the German coaching style that succeeded under Jürgen Klopp, Sebastian Hoeness, 44, could be the optimal solution. Hoeness, nephew of Bayern Munich legend Uli Hoeness, revitalized Stuttgart by transforming them from relegation battlers into Champions League contenders, culminating in winning the German Cup in 2025.

Hoeness is known for a clear attacking philosophy and youth development skills, qualities that may attract Liverpool during a rebuilding phase. He also has prior experience leading Bayern Munich's reserve team to the third division title in 2020.

Steven Gerrard's Emotional Return

Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard, aged 46, might represent a sentimental and fan-favorite choice, despite some risk following his disappointing spell at Aston Villa. Gerrard previously demonstrated his capabilities by guiding Rangers to the Scottish Premiership title in 2021 without losing a single match. He also gained extensive managerial experience during his tenure at Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia, which ended by mutual consent in early 2025.

Gerrard enjoys strong affection and respect from Liverpool supporters, and his return to Anfield as head coach could be a historic moment revitalizing the club's spirit, particularly if supported by a highly experienced coaching staff.