Just months ago, the idea of Arne Slot facing uncertainty at Liverpool would have sounded ridiculous. Fresh off a Premier League title in his first season and backed by huge summer spending—bringing in the likes of Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz, and Hugo Ekitike—the Dutchman looked set for another strong campaign.
But football changes fast.
Liverpool have slipped into a nightmare spell, losing eight of their last 11 matches in all competitions, including seven of their last eight in the league. A damaging 3–0 defeat to Nottingham Forest has left the champions 11th in the table, eight points behind leaders Arsenal, despite having played more games.
While the club insist Slot is not under immediate threat, patience will not last forever if the downward spiral continues. And if the axe falls, several high-profile coaches would be ready to step into the Anfield hot seat.
Below are the current leading contenders, based on the latest odds.
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11. Steven Gerrard – 25/1
Liverpool’s legendary former captain is currently unattached and has publicly expressed his desire to return to management.
His spells at Aston Villa and Al-Ettifaq were mixed, but his emotional connection to Anfield makes him an irresistible option for some fans. A short-term appointment until the end of the season could be a compromise that suits all parties.
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10. Cesc Fàbregas – 20/1
The former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder has made an impressive start to life as a coach, guiding Italian side Como with exciting, modern football.
Tempting him away mid-campaign may be difficult, but his Premier League experience and tactical reputation make him a name worth monitoring for Liverpool’s hierarchy.
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9. Zinedine Zidane – 16/1
A global icon both as a player and a coach, Zidane’s track record is undeniable: two La Liga titles and three straight Champions League trophies with Real Madrid.
He has been out of management since 2021 but has previously spoken highly of Anfield—calling it the best stadium he ever played in. If Liverpool want instant authority and a winning mentality, Zidane ticks every box.
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8. Mauricio Pochettino – 14/1
Now in charge of the United States national team, Pochettino has vast Premier League experience from spells with Southampton, Tottenham, and Chelsea.
He remains a respected figure in European football, although convincing him to leave an international project months before the World Cup seems unlikely.
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7. Xavi Hernández – 14/1
After ending his Barcelona tenure in 2024, Xavi is available and open to a move to England.
His possession-heavy, attacking style could appeal to Liverpool’s board, but concerns remain over whether he has the experience and defensive balance needed for a squad struggling for stability.
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6. Marco Silva – 14/1
Silva has rebuilt his reputation at Fulham, consistently overachieving with limited resources.
His contract situation could make him an accessible option, though questions remain about whether he has the pedigree required to manage a side aiming for major trophies.
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5. Julian Nagelsmann – 10/1
Nagelsmann was previously considered as Klopp’s successor before committing to the German national team.
Highly regarded for his tactical brain and ability to develop young talent, he would be a strong fit—but he is under contract with Germany until after Euro 2028, making any mid-term switch unlikely.
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4. Unai Emery – 9/1
Emery has transformed Aston Villa into a European force and remains one of the most respected coaches in the game.
His achievements with Sevilla and Villarreal underline his pedigree, though some Liverpool fans may feel his pragmatic style does not fit the club’s long-term identity. Villa would also fight hard to keep him.
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3. Oliver Glasner – 6/1
Perhaps the most realistic option.
Glasner has revitalised Crystal Palace, winning the FA Cup in 2025 and the Community Shield—beating Liverpool in the process.
With his contract running down at the end of the season, he could be tempted if the Reds come calling. His availability and Premier League success make him one of the standout candidates.
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2. Andoni Iraola – 5/1
Iraola has turned Bournemouth into one of the most entertaining sides in the league, even after losing key players.
He plays high-energy, attacking football—something Liverpool strongly value. However, he has yet to defeat Liverpool in six attempts, which could give the board pause. Still, his stock continues to rise rapidly.
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If Arne Slot’s form doesn’t improve soon, Liverpool could be forced into a decision they never expected to make. And as the odds show, several big-name managers are already lining up for the opportunity.
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