Liverpool's title defence is facing an unexpected crisis just twelve games into the new Premier League season, with manager Arne Slot under intense scrutiny following a disastrous start.
The pressure on the Dutchman escalated dramatically after a 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest left the reigning champions languishing in 11th place, a staggering 11 points behind leaders Arsenal.
Bookmakers Install Klopp as Shock Favourite
Despite leading Liverpool to their 20th top-flight title last season, Slot's position is now being seriously questioned. In response, football betting sites have compiled a list of potential successors, with former boss Jurgen Klopp emerging as the surprising 4/1 favourite for a sensational Anfield return.
The German, who was replaced by Slot at the end of the 2023/24 campaign, remains a legendary figure on Merseyside after a nine-year spell that delivered both the Champions League and Premier League trophies.
However, significant complications surround any potential Klopp comeback. The charismatic manager is currently less than a year into a role as Red Bull's Head of Global Soccer, having only started the position in January. Furthermore, Klopp has previously stated he doesn't miss management and had no intention of returning to such a high-pressure role.
Premier League Rivals in the Frame
Several current Premier League managers feature prominently in the betting odds should Liverpool decide to make a change. Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner and Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola are both available at 6/1, while Aston Villa's Unai Emery is priced at 12/1.
Fulham's Marco Silva and Brighton's Fabian Hurzeler are further back at 16/1, though Silva's previous connection with Everton might give the Anfield hierarchy pause for thought.
Securing any of these appointments mid-season would prove challenging, particularly with Glasner and Iraola performing well at their current clubs. Emery appears especially unlikely to depart Villa given he has them sitting fourth and competing in Europe.
Global Superstars and Anfield Heroes Considered
The list of potential candidates includes some of football's most celebrated names. Diego Simeone, Zinedine Zidane, and Julian Nagelsmann are all in contention according to bookmakers, though each presents significant obstacles.
Germany manager Nagelsmann is focused on leading his nation into the World Cup in seven months, while Simeone remains deeply committed to Atletico Madrid. Zidane, though available, has historically been reluctant to manage in England due to language barriers.
Perhaps the most intriguing name for Liverpool supporters is former Reds midfielder Xabi Alonso, currently managing Real Madrid. While the Spaniard is unlikely to leave the Bernabéu voluntarily, his connection to the club makes him a romantic, if improbable, candidate.
The situation represents a dramatic turnaround for Slot, who has struggled to integrate over £400 million worth of new signings following heavy summer spending. While the league title may already be beyond reach, Liverpool's squad remains capable of challenging for domestic and European trophies, increasing the pressure on the Dutchman to turn things around quickly.
