Xabi Alonso ruled himself out of the Liverpool position on Friday, stating his decision to stay at Bayer Leverkusen for at least another season. It means the Reds’ top contender, and many people’s preference for the job, is no longer in the running.
However, a number of good prospects remain. Rúben Amorim may be the new favorite, with Brighton’s Roberto De Zerbi following closely behind.
Julian Nagelsmann, Germany’s manager, has also been linked to the position and is certain to be available this summer. His contract with the national team expires after Euro 2024, and he has made it clear that he is open to new opportunities.
Liverpool has also considering Nagelsmann, although according to the Telegraph, he is ‘unlikely’ to receive the position. Unfortunately, little other information is provided other than the fact that he is not considered a favourite to become Liverpool’s next manager.
Nagelsmann is clearly one of the best possible choices. Prior to joining Bayern Munich, he had an excellent record, especially for a manager his age. Even his time at Bayern has improved in hindsight, as Thomas Tuchel has unable to equal him.
The reason he isn’t one of the top possibilities could be due of the Euros. Nagelsmann will be unable to take over for a while, as the most of the summer will have passed by the time he becomes available.
However, if Liverpool believed he was the best candidate, you would sacrifice that. Instead, it suggests that the Reds prefer alternative choices, or that Nagelsmann does not want to move to Anfield.
In any case, Amorim and De Zerbi appear to have a better chance of taking over at Liverpool this summer.