Anfield's Next Chapter: Is De Zerbi the Quiet Favorite to Replace Slot?
22 January 2026
Slot's Future Under Scrutiny
New speculation surrounds Liverpool boss Arne Slot's future as analysts weigh the best fit to replace the Dutch coach.
Many believe Italian Roberto De Zerbi would be the ideal successor if Slot leaves Anfield.
De Zerbi Emerges as a Contender
Liverpool have struggled this season despite last year's Premier League title, sitting fourth, 14 points behind Arsenal, and eleventh in the Champions League.
Even a 12-game unbeaten run since November hasn't cured the doubts, with six draws raising questions about Slot's ability to steer the club to trophies.
Tony Cascarino, former Chelsea forward and TalkSport pundit, said: 'I want Slot to save the season, but if the job opens and De Zerbi is available, I know what I want for Liverpool. He's a coach delivering big results with limited resources.'
De Zerbi took charge of Marseille in summer 2024 after leaving Brighton, guiding the club in 63 matches with 37 wins, restoring domestic and European contention.
Cascarino likened De Zerbi's style to Klopp, saying: 'His side plays with aggressive, attacking football; everything is aimed at scoring, even with players like Aubameyang, Hojbjerg, and Ángel Gomes.'
By contrast, analysts say Liverpool has lost part of its high-pressing identity under Slot, unlike Marseille, a side that plays with the bite Liverpool showed under Klopp.
Bottom line: Klopp’s era may linger; the future writes its own script—De Zerbi could surprise everyone, punchlines: bigger trophies awaiting.
