Reports suggest that Liverpool players are leaning towards Jurgen Klopp’s current assistant, Pep Lijnders. To succeed the departing German manager, rather than former Liverpool player Xabi Alonso, who is currently managing Bayer Leverkusen.
Klopp’s announcement of his departure at the end of the season has prompted discussions about his successor. According to talkSPORT’s Alan Brazil and Dean Saunders. Liverpool players prefer Lijnders due to his familiarity with the club and the squad. Which could minimize disruption during the transition.
Lijnders has been part of Liverpool’s coaching staff since 2014, initially working under Brendan Rodgers before continuing with Klopp. His contributions were pivotal in Liverpool’s recent successes, including winning the Champions League and the Premier League.
While Alonso, who enjoyed a successful playing career at Liverpool, is seen as a strong candidate for the managerial position, Lijnders’ close relationship with the players and his extensive experience within the club give him an edge, according to the reports.
Lijnders himself has hinted that he may not pursue the top job at Liverpool, expressing loyalty to Klopp and Liverpool’s ownership. However, with Klopp’s departure imminent, the managerial position remains uncertain, and both Lijnders and Alonso are considered contenders.
Alonso’s managerial success at Bayer Leverkusen has also garnered attention, with his team currently leading the Bundesliga table. However, he has remained non-committal about his future. Stating that he is focused on his current role and avoiding speculation about potential moves to Liverpool or Bayern Munich.
As Liverpool prepares for a new era post-Klopp, the decision regarding the next manager remains a topic of keen interest among fans and pundits alike.
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