Former Liverpool Winger Lands Surprise Bundesliga Managerial Role
In a surprising move that has captured attention across European football, former Liverpool star Albert Riera has been appointed as the new manager of Bundesliga club Eintracht Frankfurt. The 43-year-old Spaniard completes his switch from Slovenian side Celje, where he had been coaching since 2023.
Frankfurt's Search Ends with Unexpected Appointment
Eintracht Frankfurt had been searching for a new manager following the departure of Dino Toppmöller, and their choice has raised eyebrows across the football community. Riera, whose playing career included 56 appearances for Liverpool between 2008 and 2010, has been building his coaching credentials in Slovenia after retiring from playing in 2016.
Board member for sport Markus Krösche explained the club's decision, stating: "In Albert Riera, we have deliberately decided on a coach who plays modern, intensive and attacking football. He has international experience, a clear playing philosophy and an equally clear approach in his day-to-day work with the team."
Riera's Coaching Journey and Playing Background
Since hanging up his boots, Riera has steadily progressed through the coaching ranks:
- Began his coaching career with Olimpija Ljubljana in Slovenia
- Moved to Celje where he established his managerial reputation
- Had a brief stint with French side Bordeaux in 2023
- Returned to Celje before this Frankfurt appointment
During his playing days, the Spanish winger represented several notable clubs including:
- Espanyol (where Liverpool signed him from)
- Olympiacos
- Galatasaray
- Watford
- Udinese
- Mallorca
Transition Period and Financial Details
The German club has confirmed that Riera will oversee Celje's crucial match against Maribor this weekend before finalising his move to Frankfurt. Reports suggest the compensation package for Riera's signature amounts to approximately €700,000 (£606,000), highlighting Frankfurt's commitment to securing their chosen candidate.
Krösche further elaborated on the appointment: "In our talks, Albert impressed us with his extensive expertise and good communication. We have followed his progress for a long time and are confident that his abilities are a good fit for the demands of Eintracht Frankfurt in the current situation and in the future."
Riera's Recent Comments and Philosophy
Speaking recently about his commitment to Celje amid speculation about his future, Riera demonstrated his professional approach: "I can assure you with 200% certainty that I will be the coach of Celje in the match against Maribor. I am preparing this match as if it were a final. For us, it is a final, because this match means more than just three points."
The Spanish coach emphasised his coaching philosophy, stating: "I am happy in Celje and I always say that I will not run away from the club where I am happy. I will never walk up to the club and say - I want to leave. Out of love and respect for Celje. If I ever leave, it will happen for understandable reasons to everyone involved and in a way that will make everyone happy."
Riera's appointment represents a significant step in his coaching career, moving from Slovenian football to one of Germany's established Bundesliga clubs. His transition from Liverpool player to Bundesliga manager completes a remarkable journey through European football, and all eyes will be on how he adapts to the challenges of managing in one of Europe's top leagues.
