Benfica midfielder Orkun Kokcu has expressed admiration for his former manager, Arne Slot, he called him the “best coach in the world” and hinted at the possibility of a future reunion amid growing speculation that Liverpool might sign him.
Kokcu, 23, played under Slot at Feyenoord, where the two enjoyed a successful partnership before the Turkish international moved to Benfica in the summer of 2023 for a €25million (£20m) transfer fee, with an additional €5m (£4m) in potential add-ons. Kokcu made the move following a stellar 2022/23 season in the Eredivisie, where he won Player of the Year after scoring eight goals and providing two assists. His performances helped Feyenoord secure the league title, one season after finishing as runners-up in the UEFA Conference League.
Reflecting on his time under Slot, Kokcu hailed the coach’s impact on his career. “Arne Slot is like a father. He made me who I am. He is the best coach in the world,” Kokcu said to TRT Spor. “When he took over, I had a big breakthrough. We reached the Conference League final that year, but unfortunately, we lost. Still, my performance that season was very good. I wanted to transfer in the summer, and some big clubs in the Premier League showed interest. We had serious talks, but nothing materialized at the last minute.”
The following season, Slot made Kokcu the captain of Feyenoord, a responsibility that the midfielder believes further boosted his game. Kokcu’s overall record at Feyenoord included 32 goals and 27 assists in 175 appearances. And he has continued to shine since joining Benfica, with 11 goals and 14-assists in 58-matches for the Portuguese giants.
Liverpool’s interest in Kokcu has been a topic of speculation, particularly given Slot’s connection to the player. Though Kokcu is understood to have a release clause set at €150m (£125m), reports suggest he could be available for €80m (£67m) next summer, with Liverpool potentially eyeing a move.
While Liverpool opted not to sign any midfielders in the summer transfer window, the club has enjoyed strong performances from players like Ryan Gravenberch and Curtis Jones this season, with the Reds currently sitting at the top of the Premier League, five points clear, and boasting a perfect record in the Champions League.
After the international break, Liverpool returns to Premier League action against bottom-of-the-table Southampton on Sunday. With Slot’s work at the club continuing to garner attention for his coaching brilliance.
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