Xabi Alonso, Jose Mourinho, Zinedine Zidane

Ranked: The 18 leading candidates to replace Arne Slot at Liverpool

January 29, 2026 Aksel Kryhlmand

18. Ruben Amorim – 28/1

After a disappointing 14-month spell at Manchester United, Amorim’s Premier League reputation has taken a hit. His rigid commitment to a 3-4-3 system struggled badly in England. While his success at Sporting CP showed promise, Liverpool are unlikely to overlook his recent failure. A return to a top English job feels a long way off.

17. Ange Postecoglou – 25/1

Postecoglou’s attacking philosophy once won admirers, but recent results have damaged his standing. His Tottenham tenure ended despite Europa League success, and a short-lived spell at Nottingham Forest only added doubts. Currently unemployed, he remains available. However, Liverpool’s data-led approach makes this a highly unlikely match.

16. Mauricio Pochettino – 25/1

Now in charge of the United States national team, Pochettino is firmly in international football mode. He boasts extensive Premier League experience with Southampton, Spurs and Chelsea, plus a league title at PSG. Despite his pedigree, a return to England at this stage feels improbable. Liverpool would view him as an outside option.

15. Diego Simeone – 16/1

A legendary figure at Atlético Madrid, Simeone has built one of Europe’s most resilient teams. His tactical discipline and intensity are unquestioned. However, his defensive-first philosophy may not sit comfortably with Liverpool’s attacking identity. While experienced enough for the job, stylistic concerns would loom large.

14. Brendan Rodgers – 16/1

Rodgers is no stranger to Anfield, having managed Liverpool between 2012 and 2015. His near-title miss in 2013/14 remains a painful memory for supporters. Now back at Celtic, he brings experience but also baggage. A return would feel nostalgic rather than progressive.

13. Cesc Fabregas – 16/1

Fabregas is rapidly building a reputation as one of Europe’s most exciting young coaches at Como. His teams play intelligent, possession-based football rooted in his elite playing career. Yet his managerial experience remains limited. The Liverpool job may simply be arriving too soon for him.

12. Xavi – 14/1

Xavi Hernández — Sonia Arcos / Shutterstock.com

A free agent after leaving Barcelona, Xavi has already collected league titles in Spain and Qatar. His possession-heavy style would appeal to many Liverpool fans. However, questions remain about his adaptability and experience outside familiar environments. The board may hesitate over such a philosophical shift.

11. Simone Inzaghi – 14/1

Inzaghi impressed across Europe with Inter Milan before moving to Saudi Arabia in 2025. His teams combine defensive structure with sharp attacking transitions. A return to Europe could tempt him if a giant comes calling. The timing, though, makes his candidacy uncertain.

10. Marco Silva – 14/1

Silva has earned praise for his work at Fulham, turning them into a well-organised Premier League side. He’s more polished than during his Everton and Watford days. With his contract nearing its end, he’s attainable. Still, doubts persist about his readiness for an elite title contender.

9. Zinedine Zidane – 12/1

Zidane’s managerial record speaks for itself, with multiple Champions League triumphs at Real Madrid. He remains out of work and selective about his next move. His calm authority would instantly command respect in the dressing room. Whether he’d embrace the Premier League grind is the key question.

8. Julian Nagelsmann – 10/1

One of football’s brightest tactical minds, Nagelsmann currently leads Germany. His modern, analytical approach aligns well with Liverpool’s structure. However, international commitments complicate any move. If available, he’d represent a long-term, high-upside appointment.

7. José Mourinho – 9/1

Mourinho is still a serial winner, even if his style divides opinion. Trophy success follows him, but so does controversy. His defensive pragmatism would mark a sharp break from Liverpool’s recent identity. A bold, risky appointment with no middle ground.

6. Thomas Frank – 8/1

Frank has overachieved consistently with Brentford, earning respect across the league. His adaptability, leadership and man-management stand out. While not the flashiest option, he fits Liverpool’s preference for structure and sustainability. A sensible but unspectacular choice.

5. Xabi Alonso – 6/1

Alonso’s rise at Bayer Leverkusen has been nothing short of spectacular. His tactical intelligence and calm authority mirror his playing days. Loved by Liverpool supporters, he represents both sentiment and substance. Many see him as a future Anfield manager—if the timing is right.

4. Steven Gerrard – 5/1

A Liverpool icon, Gerrard’s name will always carry weight. His title-winning spell at Rangers showed promise, but Premier League struggles with Aston Villa raised doubts. Emotionally compelling, tactically uncertain. Appointing him would be a huge gamble.

3. Pep Lijnders – 4/1

Pepijn Lijnders — kivnl // Shutterstock.com

Deeply embedded in Liverpool’s modern identity, Lijnders offers continuity and internal knowledge. He understands the club’s players, structure and philosophy better than anyone. However, his lack of experience as a head coach is a concern. A safe transition—or a step too far.

2. Unai Emery – 3/1

Emery has rebuilt his reputation spectacularly at Aston Villa. Known for tactical clarity and European expertise, he’s proven he can elevate squads. His methods are demanding but effective. The biggest obstacle is whether Villa can convince him to stay.

1. Roberto De Zerbi – 2/1

The leading favourite, De Zerbi is admired for his bold, progressive football. His work at Brighton has earned widespread acclaim across Europe. He develops players, embraces risk and dominates possession—traits that align with Liverpool’s vision. If Slot goes, De Zerbi looks the natural successor.

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