Amidst the typical Liverpool player rumours and movement, Liverpool have announced the departure of assistant coach John Heitinga. The 41-year-old Dutchman was hired to serve under Arne Slot for his inaugural season with the Reds. After the team’s success, Heitinga has been picked to serve as the new Head Coach at his childhood club, Ajax.
Heitinga had previously served as an interim manager there in 2023 and his loyalty to the club dates back to the 90s, when he begun there as a youth.
When asked about the possibility of Heitinga leaving for the Eredivisie giants, Slot said last week, “If Ajax would be smart, they would consider him. He is ready to take on a job like that. If John is smart, he would stay one more season.”
The official site put out a statement that reads the following:
“John Heitinga leaves role at Liverpool FC.
The 41-year-old leaves the Reds after one season in the backroom team, operating as assistant coach to Arne Slot.
He now assumes a position in charge of former club Ajax in his native Netherlands.
John leaves with our gratitude and appreciation for his role in our 2024-25 Premier League title win.”
Of course, the search for a new deputy is already ongoing with a few names in the mix. The most notable of which is former Liverpool player Dirk Kuyt. Kuyt is currently in charge at Beerschot, who were relegated from the Belgian Pro League, but he is expected to step down from that position.