A familiar face from Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool era could soon be back in English football, with reports suggesting that Vitor Matos has become a strong contender for a managerial role in the Championship.
Matos first arrived at Anfield more than six years ago as the club’s elite development coach, a position that placed him at the heart of player progression between the academy and first team. He played a key part in shaping young talents, while also supporting the senior coaching staff during training preparations.
After Klopp and most of his long-time team departed Liverpool at the end of the 2023/24 season, Matos followed Pep Lijnders to Red Bull Salzburg as his assistant. That spell lasted until December, when Lijnders was dismissed. The Portuguese coach then made the jump into frontline management earlier this year, taking charge of Marítimo in June.
Swansea City Hold ‘Advanced Talks’ With Matos
According to Football Insider, Swansea City have opened advanced negotiations with Matos as they search for a replacement for Alan Sheehan, who was relieved of his duties last week.
The 37-year-old is believed to be open to returning to England, and Swansea reportedly want the deal wrapped up before they face Bristol City on Saturday.
While the Welsh club initially looked toward Hammarby coach Kim Hellberg, that path now appears closed as he edges closer to taking the reins at Middlesbrough.
Impressive Early Career Raises His Profile
Matos has enjoyed a positive start to life as a senior manager. Since joining Marítimo, he has won half of his opening 12 matches and lifted the club into third place in Portugal’s second division.
His early success has been linked to a clear tactical identity, front-foot attacking football, and a confident approach to media duties — qualities highlighted by The Athletic.
Klopp himself spoke glowingly of Matos when he brought him to Liverpool in 2019, describing him as an “outstanding coach.” Matos was also known for helping foreign players settle at the club by translating key instructions during training and meetings.
A Smart Move for Swansea?
Should Swansea secure his signature, Matos would arrive with pedigree and promise, but also pressure. The club dropped to 18th in the Championship before Sheehan’s dismissal, leaving them under immediate demand for improvement.
However, with two-thirds of the season remaining and the gap to the play-off positions still manageable, there is time for a revival — and Matos could be the fresh voice the Swans need.
If the deal is completed, his return to English football will mark the next major step in a rapidly rising coaching career.
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