Feyenoord coach Arne Slot has confirmed he will replace Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool manager. Klopp, who has been in charge of the Reds since October 2015, is leaving at the end of the season after a highly successful tenure that includes winning the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and two EFL Cups. Following Klopp’s announcement in January, several managers were considered for the role. However, in April, BBC Sport reported that Slot was set to take over after a compensation deal worth up to £9.4 million was agreed with Feyenoord.
“I can confirm that I will become the trainer there next year,” Slot said on Friday. Reflecting on his impending departure, he added, “Until now I was not thinking about this being the build-up to my last match, but that starts coming now. At the beginning of the week, you are thinking about training and those kinds of things.” Slot noted that the realization of his departure is becoming more profound, which is why he was slightly late to the news conference, as he took time to say personal goodbyes.
Slot’s farewell game at Feyenoord, after three years in charge, will be Sunday’s Eredivisie home match against Excelsior. Coincidentally, Klopp’s final game at Liverpool will also take place on the same day, with a home Premier League game against Wolves. Reflecting on his departure, Slot said, “I understand that good results help, but it is very nice to feel that people really are thinking it’s a pity that I’m leaving.”
Feyenoord confirmed Slot’s departure on social media, stating, “The Arne Slot era is coming to an end. Let’s enjoy the last moments.” Despite this significant managerial change, Liverpool has yet to comment on the announcement.
