Man United and Chelsea were both reportedly turned down by Jurgen Klopp, but what would be the equivalent at Liverpool?
Klopp’s loyalty to the Reds was tested on a couple of occasions when he left Anfield.
Interest was coming from the international scene, but apparently from the Premier League as well.
The German previously stated he wouldn’t manage another English club, but that kind of mindset is a rarity in the modern game.
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Yan Diomande gestures to teammates during RB Leipzig's Bundesliga match with VfL Wolfsburg at the Red Bull Arena. Bradley Barcola looks down during PSG's FIFA Club World Cup semi-final against Real Madrid in New Jersey. Nico Williams pictured in action for Athletic Bilbao in their Europa League semi-final clash versus Manchester United. Desire Doue during Paris Saint-Germain v Lille OSC - Ligue 1 McDonald's.
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Here’s one former manager from each Big Six club who might not be so closed off, and who (for the most part) could do a good job at Liverpool.
Former Big Six bosses who could replace Arne Slot at Liverpool
Before getting into it, it’s important to note that this isn’t the best manager from each club.
It’s the best fit for Liverpool, but by no means a recommendation.
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Slot retains the backing of FSG, and his job seems secure for now. If he was to leave, these are managers who might consider doing what Klopp would not.
Chelsea – Maurizio Sarri
SS Lazio v Atalanta BC - Serie A
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As the club with the widest selection for this exercise, Chelsea offer plenty of different options. Recently departed Enzo Maresca was close, but I’m giving the edge to a coach whose time at Stamford Bridge flies under the radar.
Maurizio Sarri’s one-season fling with Chelsea saw them finish third at the height of the ‘Citypool’ era with a Europa League trophy in hand. Sarri-ball was in full flow and the brand of football was extremely entertaining.
He would actually be quite a good fit for Liverpool’s philosophy.
Tottenham – Mauricio Pochettino
Spurs have been changing managers like socks in recent seasons, but before that, Pochettino brought stability and success during his five years in London.
Admittedly, he has been less impressive elsewhere. The stint at Chelsea springs to mind. But if you look at the list to choose from, he would be the safest choice for Liverpool.
Honourable mention goes to Ange Postecoglou.
Arsenal – Unai Emery
Unai Emery managing Aston Villa
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The pick of the bunch. Unai Emery was at the helm at Arsenal for just 18 months, and it wasn’t his finest work. However, since taking the job at Aston Villa, he has an argument for best manager in the league not named Pep Guardiola.
He brought Champions League nights back to Villa Park and continues to exceed expectations in the role. Liverpool would not be the perfect fit, but I really think he’s good enough to make it work.
Manchester City – Roberto Mancini
It was a toss-up between Manuel Pellegrini and Roberto Mancini for an ex-Man City pick, with Pep far too unrealistic to make the cut.
Both managers brought a Premier League title to the Etihad during the early days of the current ownership. Mancini gets the nod for a slightly more expansive playstyle. Not to mention, Pellegrini is now 72.
Manchester United – Ralf Rangnick
Saving the worst for last, Man United haven’t been good for so long that this really was a ‘pick your poison’ kind of decision.
Since Sir Alex Ferguson left, no manager has been able to fill his sizeable shoes. Ralf Rangnick is getting the nod, maybe because he wasn’t there long enough to damage his reputation, or for a Liverpool fan to feel any type of way about him.
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But the current Austria manager is a capable tactician with a style of play that would resemble what Klopp implemented at Liverpool.
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