Pep, Xabi Alonso, Mourinho and the 2 Coaches Who Could Replace Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool

• Jurgen Klopp has revealed he will leave his role as Liverpool boss
• Klopp is currently English football's third longest-serving manager
• Here is a look at the 5 possible candidates for the Reds' hot seat

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has announced his decision to step down from the position at the conclusion of the season, citing a depletion of energy.

Klopp, who took charge in October 2015 with a contract originally extending until 2026, achieved significant success, securing the Champions League title in 2019 and guiding Liverpool to their first league championship in 30 years during the 2019–20 campaign.

Sports Brief examines five potential candidates who may be considered for the managerial position, presenting them in order of their likelihood of securing the job.

5. Steven Gerrard

Sentimentally, choosing Steven Gerrard as the next Liverpool manager would be the ideal fairy tale, a Hollywood-scripted selection for many Liverpool fans who hold their former captain in high regard.

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Gerrard's managerial journey commenced with Liverpool's youth side before making a significant impact in Scotland, notably at Rangers, where he stylishly halted Celtic's dominance.

However, the path has not been entirely smooth since leaving Ibrox Stadium.

Despite a title-winning stint at Rangers, Gerrard's subsequent experience at Villa served as a humbling reality check, dispelling any notion of an assured return to Anfield's managerial helm.

Presently, as the head coach of Al Ettifaq in the Saudi Pro League, Gerrard's tenure has faced challenges, marked by a lack of victories since October 2023.

4. Jose Mourinho

Whenever a top managerial vacancy arises, especially in the Premier League, Jose Mourinho is frequently associated with the position.

His successful tenures at Chelsea, securing three EPL titles and setting numerous records across two spells, underscore his tactical acumen.

However, his less-than-stellar stint at Tottenham Hotspur has somewhat diminished his standing in the coaching realm.

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Currently, without a club, after he was relieved of his duties at AS Roma, the Special One has been rumoured to be in line to replace Eddie Howe at Newcastle United, per Express.

Yet, with Jurgen Klopp announcing his departure from Anfield, Mourinho might be enticed to vie for the opportunity to challenge sceptics once again.

3. Roberto De Zerbi

Adopting a 4-2-3-1 formation, De Zerbi's Brighton stands out in the Premier League as a possession-oriented team, often commanding games with over 70% ball possession and displaying resilience against pressing tactics.

His tactical approach has earned comparisons to renowned managers like Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp.

Even Klopp expressed admiration for De Zerbi's style.

In May 2023, Klopp lauded Brighton's 6-0 victory over Wolves, stating as cited by The Argus, "Brighton played one of the best football games this weekend that I have ever seen in my life, I have to say. Mr De Zerbi, wow!"

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However, two concerns cast shadows on the Italian's suitability for the Liverpool managerial role.

Firstly, De Zerbi lacks experience managing a club of Liverpool's calibre. Secondly, defensive vulnerabilities, evidenced by conceding 33 goals this season, pose a question mark.

2. Pepijn Lijnders

Pepijn 'Pep' Lijnders stands as a strong candidate to step into the managerial role when his boss, Klopp, eventually concludes his tenure at the end of the season.

This potential appointment emphasises continuity, with Lijnders, the author of the guide to Liverpool's workings, being the most adept individual to perpetuate the established approach at Anfield.

The rationale behind Lijnders' anticipated elevation is clear: it ensures a seamless transition, per One Football.

Possessing an intricate understanding of the club and having contributed significantly as Klopp's right-hand man since his return from managing NEC in 2018, Lijnders is well-positioned to carry forward the success that Liverpool has achieved in recent years.

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1. Xabi Alonso

Xabi Alonso emerges as a highly sensible option on the managerial shortlist.

Garnering widespread acclaim, he orchestrated the remarkable transformation of Bayer Leverkusen from a relegation-threatened team to the current Bundesliga leaders.

The former Anfield maestro, renowned for his elegant play, spent five successful years at Liverpool, securing the 2005 Champions League and the 2006 FA Cup.

Now, Alonso's coaching prowess takes centre stage, with his impressive managerial track record, notably steering Leverkusen to a new German football record with an unbeaten streak spanning 25 games, as noted by This is Anfield.

Klopp linked to Germany role

Meanwhile, the news of Jurgen Klopp's decision to step down as Liverpool manager at the end of the season surprised many in his native Germany on Friday, sparking speculation about a possible move to the national team.

Klopp has often been mentioned as a potential candidate to lead the national side, especially given Germany's recent challenges, Sports Brief reported.

The current national coach, Julian Nagelsmann, has a contract expiring after Euro 2024, coinciding with Klopp's announced departure from Liverpool.