Liverpool has done very well under Jürgen Klopp since his appointment in 2016. They have won the UEFA Champions League, and have reached the final on two further occasions during his tenure. Klopp also lead Liverpool to a the Premier League title after three decades in 2020. Moreover, the Merseysiders gave Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City some stiff competition.
However, a change of guard at Anfield in near future cannot be ruled out completely. Klopp might be tempted by the German national team job, apart from likely interests from other clubs. However, irrespective of whether Klopp stays at Liverpool or not, they are in the process of rebuilding that should only further intensify in the coming years.
A complete overhaul in midfield
Liverpool has parted ways with midfielders like Jordan Henderson, Fabinho, James Milner and Naby Keita before the start of the season. They signed new midfielders such as Alexis Mac Allister, Dominic Szoboszslai and Wataru Endo to make a complete overhaul in their midfield. As per latest reports, Thiago Alcantara might also be on his way out from the club.
The Reds are also in the process of a transformation, as far as their playing style is concerned. They have made a switch to playing more short passes this season from their usual style of creating moves through long passes.
With forwards like Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo and Darwin Núñez, all of whom are relatively new to the club. Klopp will need to make sure that the transition in playing style is smooth for the club, keeping them in the race for the league title at the same time.
Some veteran players will move on
Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, two of Liverpool’s most influential players, are both on the wrong side of 3,0 and might have their years at the club numbered. Much has already been speculated about Salah’s potential transfer to a Saudi Arabian club, which might materialize in the January Transfer Window in 2024 itself.
Hence, Liverpool might have to look for the Egyptian forward’s replacement sooner than they expected at the start of the season. The Scottish youngster Ben Doak has been touted as Salah’s successor, but he will have large shoes to fill.
As far as van Dijk is concerned, he might still play for the club for two more seasons, but Liverpool should prepare to find his replacement as well. They have already seemingly shown interest in West Ham’s Moroccan center back Nayef Aguerd, who has been really impressive this season so far.
Liverpool has another veteran defender in Joel Matip, who might also leave the club in near future. Hence, they will need further reinforcements in the heart of their defense to partner Ibrahima Konaté.
Liverpool will want Klopp to stay for at least a couple of more years
In such a scenario, Liverpool will need their German manager to stay on for two more years at least. It will not be easy for any new manager to replicate the kind of success that Klopp has had for the Reds. However, change of guard cannot be ruled out in the upcoming seasons and the Liverpool supporters will hope that it will be for the better.