Liverpool head coach Arne Slot could be dealt a mid-season blow as reports suggest West Brom are eyeing a key member of his backroom staff, John Heitinga, for their vacant managerial position.
The Reds have thrived under Slot’s leadership this season, storming to the top of the Premier League table with a six-point lead and a game in hand.
This impressive form has come despite contract uncertainties surrounding star players such as Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, all of whom are entering the final six months of their current deals.
However, Liverpool’s title challenge could face a new obstacle, with Heitinga reportedly emerging as a frontrunner for the manager’s job at West Brom.
The Championship club are in search of a new head coach following Carlos Corberan’s departure on Christmas Eve, as he prepares to take charge of Valencia.
Heitinga, a former Everton star, joined Slot’s coaching staff in July, bringing a wealth of experience from both the Premier League and Dutch football.
He previously served as interim head coach at Ajax, where he improved their fortunes following Alfred Schreuder’s departure in 2023.
Heitinga has also coached in the Premier League under David Moyes at West Ham, further enhancing his coaching pedigree.
Slot has spoken highly of Heitinga’s contributions since his arrival at Anfield, praising his tactical insight and his ability to connect with players.
Losing Heitinga mid-season would undoubtedly be a setback, but Slot will be hoping to keep his staff intact as Liverpool push for silverware on multiple fronts.
“One of the reasons why we work together is because we have so much in common, if it’s about playing style, game model or the changes we make during the game,” he said.
“John Heitinga is now here with me for the first half season and I couldn’t have wished for more.
“Very, if I say, talented, I do not even rate him high enough because he’s more than that already, he’s been a head coach himself but he’s still young.
“He grew into our staff from the start in a very good manner. He has the same idea about football, that’s why I chose him to come to us as well. But the way he is with the boys is very positive. All the things we do we do together.”
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