Here’s a strong, realistic speculative lineup and analysis of how Liverpool could line up under Jurgen Klopp in the 2025/2026 season, assuming squad evolution, potential transfers, and development of young players.

Here are 11 of the main names being mooted as potential replacements for Arne Slot — in case Liverpool FC decide to move on. Some are more likely than others, but all have been floated in recent speculation.

 

 

 

 

 

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🎯 Most-talked-about candidates

 

 

 

Jürgen Klopp

 

 

 

Widely regarded as the frontrunner on the odds boards to return to Anfield.

 

 

 

Former Liverpool legend — his track-record and rapport with fans makes him a strong “safe pair of hands” if the club seeks stability.

 

 

 

 

 

Xabi Alonso

 

 

 

Currently at Real Madrid, but reportedly under pressure — which fuels speculation he might be tempted by a return to England.

 

 

 

His tactical profile and status as a former Liverpool player make him an attractive long-term option.

 

 

 

 

 

Oliver Glasner

 

 

 

Manager of Crystal Palace; he’s done impressive work with limited resources and recently delivered major silverware.

 

 

 

Many pundits consider him one of the most realistic candidates if Liverpool want a coach who can rebuild and steady things quickly.

 

 

 

 

 

Andoni Iraola

 

 

 

Has impressed as manager at Bournemouth FC, whose attacking, high-press style could suit Liverpool’s ambitions.

 

 

 

Considered a strong “up-and-coming” manager who could handle the pressure if given backing.

 

 

 

 

 

Unai Emery

 

 

 

Currently with a respected track record, has bounced back from setbacks and could offer experience and pragmatism.

 

 

 

Seen as a potential “steadying hand” if Liverpool want to avoid big gamble and focus on consistency.

 

 

 

 

 

Roberto De Zerbi

 

 

 

Has gathered praise in recent years for his progressive style; has been linked to bigger clubs and might thrive with Liverpool’s resources.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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🔭 Long-shot / speculative names

 

 

 

Julian Nagelsmann

 

 

 

Frequently mentioned historically as a top young coach with high tactical nous.

 

 

 

However, recent reporting suggests Liverpool are not actively courting him at present.

 

 

 

 

 

Nicky Hayen

 

 

 

A more surprising name: he currently manages Club Brugge KV and has drawn some attention as a “future-prospect” for top jobs, potentially even Liverpool in a couple of seasons.

 

 

 

Seen as a project-type pick — if Liverpool were thinking long-term rather than an immediate fix.

 

 

 

 

 

Filipe Luis

 

 

 

According to some reports, the Liverpool hierarchy has at least looked at him (currently at Flamengo) as a possible wildcard replacement.

 

 

 

But he’s far from a consensus candidate, and many see this as more of a “dark horse” option.

 

 

 

 

 

Giovanni van Bronckhorst

 

 

 

Occasionally mentioned in some broader lists as a coaching option; given his prior ties to Liverpool (as an assistant under Slot at one point), he appears as a modest-ambition internal/external candidate.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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⚠️ Context & Why It’s Uncertain

 

 

 

The speculation has surged largely because Liverpool’s season has taken a downturn — poor results and heavy losses have triggered pressure on Arne Slot.

 

 

 

Despite rumours, some names like Nagelsmann are reportedly not being actively pursued according to recent reporting.

 

 

 

Others — like Nicky Hayen or Filipe Luis — remain speculative or long-term, rather than immediate solutions.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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If you like — I can produce a full ranked “top 10” list (with Pros & Cons for each candidate) to help you see who makes the most sense, given Liverpool’s current squad and ambitions.