Liverpool assistant coach John Heitinga is reportedly set to leave Liverpool this summer according to the latest developments.
The Dutchman was a key figure in Liverpool’s coaching setup since joining Arne Slot’s backroom staff in July 2024.
The 41-year-old Dutch coach arrived at Anfield after serving as first-team assistant coach at West Ham United during the 2023/24 season.
Heitinga’s path to Liverpool included significant experience in both playing and coaching roles.
After hanging up his boots in 2016, he worked his way through Ajax’s youth setup before taking charge of the Amsterdam club’s senior side in early 2023.
His stint as Ajax’s caretaker manager helped steady the ship during one of the club’s most challenging seasons in recent memory – the 2023/24 campaign.
His playing career included spells at prestigious clubs like Ajax, Atletico Madrid, and notably, 140 appearances for Everton.
After leaving West Ham in May 2024, the Dutchman joined up with Slot, playing a key role in the club’s Premier League title triumph.
Heitinga took charge of Liverpool for the first time in a 2-0 win over Newcastle United on 26 February 2025, whilst manager Slot and assistant manager Sipke Hulshoff were suspended.
Meanwhile, the 41-year-old was subject of interest from West Brom during the season. But the move never materialsed and Heitinga stayed put to help Slot win the league.
However, it appears his time at Anfield will come to an end in the coming days as he has been identified as potentially the next Ajax coach.
This is according to the reliable football journalist Fabrizio Romano, who reports that the Liverpool coach is set to become the next Ajax coach.
“Liverpool gives permission to John Heitinga for talks with Ajax as negotiations to become the new head coach are advanced,” Romano posted on X.
“Liverpool have begun the process of looking at replacements if the Heitinga deal goes through, as looks likely.”
Ajax are looking for a new coach after Francesco Farioli left the club at the end of the season.
Things have been tough for the Amsterdam club recently and they narrowly missed out on the Eredivisie title this season.
Heitinga has previous history with Ajax, both as a player and manager. Fans will hope he can help restore the club to its place as Dutch football royalty.
🚨🔴⚪️ EXCL: Liverpool gives permission to John Heitinga for talks with Ajax as negotiations to become the new head coach are advanced.
Liverpool have begun the process of looking at replacements if the Heitinga deal goes through, as looks likely. pic.twitter.com/erFHPx1vcj
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 27, 2025
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