New names continue to emerge as Liverpool deliberate over appointing Jurgen Klopp’s successor.
Having seen Xabi Alonso drop out of the race last month, Sporting’s Ruben Amorim has emerged as the most likely candidate.
However, it’s increasingly been said that Liverpool and FSG are actually yet to pick a favourite candidate. Journalist David Ornstein even reported that the Reds could do something ‘brave’ and hire an unexpected manager.
With that in mind, a couple of potential options have been put forward in the press. Niko Kovac was one, but the Croat has since distanced himself from any speculation.
Another was the man who masterminded Liverpool’s dreadful 3-0 defeat against Atalanta last Thursday – Gian Piero Gasperini. Like Kovac, Gasperini has now responded. But, unlike his counterpart, the Italian has reacted with glee.
Gian Piero Gasperini reacts to Liverpool links
We’re not completely sure whether there is any serious suggestion that Gasperini could take over at Anfield next season.
Following their convincing win last week, journalist and Italian football expert James Horncastle did claim that the 64-year-old should be in the running. But there’s been no follow up to indicate that he is.
Nevertheless, Gasperini appears to have been asked about potentially replacing Klopp at Liverpool ahead of tomorrow’s return-leg against the Reds.
“Of course I am happy with links to Liverpool job to replace Klopp but my focus is on the game,” the manager said via journalist Fabrizio Romano on X.
“We can’t be distracted by this kind of links or stories, we have to focus on the upcoming games.”
With Atalanta comfortably ahead in the tie, Liverpool will likely get another glimpse into Gasperini’s qualities tomorrow.
Liverpool should look to Gasperini heir
Rather than looking at Gasperini as their next potential manager – something we don’t think Liverpool will be doing – the Reds should instead turn to a coach the Italian helped shape.
Thiago Motta has been a name flung out there as one being discussed at Anfield. The 41-year-old is doing a super job at Bologna this season and looks like he could soon take a top position.
Interestingly, Motta played under Gasperini at Genoa and has cited his former boss as one of his tactical inspirations.
“Surely there is something, also because with him I have seen many beautiful things, in the way he works, in training and in everyday life,” the former PSG captain said of Gasperini [TuttomercatoWeb]. “It is the great strength that he has in the daily life that he transmits to the team.”
We’re not sure it will go any further with Gasp, but maybe Motta would be an astute hire.