Thomas Frank, Ange Postecoglou 'under consideration as Jurgen Klopp successor'

By Devesh Jaganath | 27 January 2024

Frank, Postecoglou 'under consideration by Liverpool as Klopp successor'

Brentford's Thomas Frank and Tottenham Hotspur's Ange Postecoglou are reportedly among the managers that Liverpool are considering to succeed Jurgen Klopp.

Brentford's Thomas Frank and Tottenham Hotspur's Ange Postecoglou are reportedly among the names of managers that Liverpool are considering to succeed Jurgen Klopp.

Klopp confirmed his decision to leave Liverpool on Friday morning, conveying the message that he had made the difficult call due to feeling as though he was 'running out of energy.'

The German manager will end his nine-year stint at Anfield this summer following the completion of the current league season.

According to The Athletic, the Reds have already been in touch with several agents as part of their efforts to evaluate suitable options and ensure a smooth transition for the post-Klopp era.

The report adds that Liverpool were made aware of Klopp's intention to leave back in November, and the club has been working behind the scenes over the past two months to identify potential replacements.

Among the names that have come up is Thomas Frank, who is believed to be admired by the club's hierarchy.

Brentford manager Thomas Frank before the match on December 27, 2023 © Reuters

The Brentford boss is viewed as someone who has a similar approach to Klopp, both in terms of style of play and personality on the touchline and in the dressing room.

Postecoglou, who only arrived at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the summer, is another Premier League manager who is believed to be in the running to replace the German at Anfield next season.

The Spurs boss revealed his surprise at Klopp's decision to leave Liverpool while speaking to the press following his side's defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup.

"I guess I was as surprised as anyone else because he's a top manager, and they are flying at the moment."

"But also understanding, at the back of my mind, all of us who have been in the game a while, it's the constant thought in your head because you know how much you need to put into the position. He's probably one of the unique ones; he will go down as one of the best," said Postecoglou when questioned about his reaction to the news.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou pictured on January 26, 2024 © Reuters

"My only wish is he does stay out of the game a little while for a couple of reasons. The obvious one about the competitiveness, but also it gives me a bit of hope that when I call it a day I am not going to get the urge to come back too quickly," he added.

However, Klopp ruled out the possibility of retracting his decision in his interview on Friday by stating: "No, nothing. If I won everything this season, it wouldn't change my mind. I had to make the decision. I thought it through properly."

He added: "It's independent of any kind of result this season. The big one is I can see there is a really good basis for this team. That's why it's a good moment to give it to someone else."

Other notable managers who are believed to be in the running for the role include former Liverpool players Xabi Alonso and Steven Gerrard, as well as Brighton & Hove Albion's Roberto De Zerbi.

Julian Nagelsmann is another potential contender, but it is understood that he is currently focused on leading Germany at the upcoming Euro 2024.