How Liverpool could line up under Ruben Amorim with key Jurgen Klopp signing dropped

Ruben Amorim, the current manager of Sporting Lisbon, is considered the frontrunner to succeed Jurgen Klopp in the managerial role at Liverpool.

Liverpool is currently undergoing the process of finding a replacement for Klopp, who surprised many with his decision to leave the club at the end of the season earlier this year.

While many initially viewed Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso as the top candidate due to his association with Liverpool and accomplishments in the Bundesliga, it appears that Ruben Amorim has emerged as the leading contender for the position.

Alonso recently announced his commitment to remain with Leverkusen for the upcoming season. This decision came just days before Leverkusen extended their lead at the top of the table by 13 points, following Bayern Munich’s defeat to Borussia Dortmund, effectively closing the door on the title race.

Various reports indicate that Liverpool had prior knowledge of Alonso’s intentions amid their search for a new manager. Consequently, Ruben Amorim swiftly emerged as the frontrunner to assume the managerial reins at Anfield.

Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi and Germany’s national team coach Julian Nagelsmann are reportedly under consideration for the Liverpool managerial position. However, it is believed that Roberto De Zerbi has the advantage in the race to succeed Jurgen Klopp.

Amorim, aged 39, has achieved significant success at Sporting Lisbon, guiding them to their first league title in 19 years during his inaugural full season in charge. Currently, Sporting Lisbon sits atop the division once again, impressing with their attacking prowess, having scored 77 goals while conceding only 26.

Should Amorim be appointed, Liverpool may undergo a tactical shift from Klopp’s traditional 4-3-3 formation. At Sporting, the former Benfica midfielder has favored a 3-4-3 setup, which could potentially see one of Klopp’s key signings excluded from the starting lineup. Let’s explore how Liverpool could line up under Amorim’s stewardship.

Despite Caoimhin Kelleher’s impressive performances, Alisson is expected to reclaim his starting position as Liverpool’s goalkeeper, given his stature as one of the top goalkeepers globally.

Virgil van Dijk’s contract situation remains uncertain, but he has shown a return to top form since assuming the captaincy from Jordan Henderson. He is likely to anchor a back three alongside Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez. Liverpool may also consider recruiting from Sporting Lisbon, with both Goncalo Inacio and Ousmane Diomande being touted as potential targets due to their standout performances this season.

Under Amorim’s fluid tactical setup, Trent Alexander-Arnold could thrive in a more advanced role on the right, capitalizing on his playmaking abilities. This shift allows him to exert a greater offensive influence while benefiting from added defensive stability provided by a back three. Meanwhile, Andy Robertson remains Liverpool’s preferred option on the left flank, but the club may explore signing a younger alternative. Wolves defender Rayan Ait-Nouri has emerged as a potential target, with Klopp reportedly endorsing the move.

In midfield, Amorim favors a double-pivot system. Morten Hjulmand acts as the defensive screen, offering protection during transitions, while Hidemasa Morita assumes a more attacking role, pushing forward into the box or drifting wide. Wataru Endo appears well-suited for the defensive midfield role, leaving Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai to compete for the remaining central position. Mac Allister’s recent performances have made him a key figure in Klopp’s plans, potentially giving him the edge. However, Szoboszlai’s versatility allows him to cover multiple positions and could see him deployed further forward if needed.

Up front, Sporting’s Viktor Gyökeres has been in prolific form, boasting 22 goals and 10 assists in just 25 league games this season. This bodes well for Darwin Nunez, who is expected to lead the Liverpool attack alongside Mohamed Salah and either Luis Diaz or Diogo Jota on the flanks.

Considering the significant implications for both Liverpool and Sporting Lisbon in their respective title races, it’s improbable that Klopp’s successor will be unveiled before the conclusion of the season.

While Amorim is focused on achieving further success with Sporting Lisbon, it appears inevitable that a move to one of Europe’s top clubs is on the horizon for the talented manager.