Why Arne Slot job title is not Liverpool manager as FSG breaks with tradition

Arne Slot has been confirmed as Liverpool's new boss with the Dutchman taking over from Jürgen Klopp at the end of the season. Klopp announced back in January that he would be stepping down, with Liverpool then beginning the search for his successor.

Xabi Alonso and Rúben Amorim were two of the more prominent names linked with the Anfield job but it is Slot who has been tasked with leading the post-Klopp era. He arrives with a decent reputation, having led Feyenoord to the Eredivisie title last term.

Slot's appointment will actually see Liverpool's owners break tradition following a major restructure behind the scenes. Michael Edwards is back working with FSG as CEO of Football, while Richard Hughes will arrive as sporting director in the summer.

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The changes have seen Slot assume the title of 'head coach' rather than 'manager' and it is the first time the Reds have gone down that route. It is a modern approach that most elite clubs in Europe use now, including the likes of Barcelona and Bayern Munich. Here is how things may work at Liverpool from this summer after Slot's appointment,

What is the difference?

Slot's main focus as 'head coach' at Anfield will be coaching and preparing the team, and specifically what happens on the pitch, in a significant shift from the Kopp era. In recent years in particular, the German has been heavily involved in scouting and transfer negotiations alongside his coaching duties. Managers can also have a big influence on training facilities, staff appointments and other key decisions.

The idea behind the title is that it can safeguard against a major decline, should a manager depart. It is believed that even if a head coach leaves, it is less of an issue as long as what is behind the scenes remains in place.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was initially appointed as head coach before his title was changed to manager in 2020, due to the other responsibilities of his role. Chief executive Vinai Venkatesham told the club's official website: "He is doing a great job of coaching the first team and that’s his primary responsibility, but there is so much more that he can bring and that’s why we’re making this change, in recognition of his capabilities and also the job that he’s doing already

The Times reported it is also a model that new Manchester United minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is keen on implementing, should Erik ten Hag be sacked.

What does it mean for Liverpool?

The decision to appoint Slot as head coach is another example of how highly Edwards is rated by FSG. Liverpool now falls under his remit, but he will have other responsibilities, with Hughes put in charge of the Reds.

Slot has worked in the same model throughout his career in the Netherlands and while he will be involved in identifying transfer targets, will not have the same control that Klopp once did.

Liverpool has had some iconic managers down the years but Slot is believed to be happy with his status in what is a significant move by the club.