Liverpool have lined-up an outrageous choice to replace Arne Slot according to a recent report.
The defeat to Brighton felt less like an isolated setback and more like a continuation of a worrying trend for Reds.
It effectively summed up what has been a deeply underwhelming season and, more broadly, a disappointing year.
While there have been occasional positives, such as the performance against Galatasaray, these moments have been too infrequent to suggest any real consistency.
For the most part, Liverpool have looked like a diminished version of the side supporters have come to expect - the side that looked so phenomenal during the first half of the 2024/25 campaign.
A significant point of concern lies in the approach of Slot.
His system, while structured, has rarely been associated with attacking fluidity or sustained excitement.
Early in the season, results helped mask these shortcomings, giving the impression of stability. However, as results have declined, the underlying issues have become more apparent. Without victories to reinforce belief, the lack of creativity and intensity has made matches increasingly difficult to engage with.
This downturn is also reflected in fan sentiment. There is a noticeable decline in enthusiasm, with fewer supporters consistently following matches. The growing disconnect between team performances and supporter expectations is becoming a serious concern.
From a competitive standpoint, the implications are significant. Champions League qualification is no longer a realistic certainty, but rather an increasingly unlikely outcome.
Ultimately, while football at the elite level is often framed as a results-driven industry, entertainment remains central to its appeal. If Liverpool fail to restore both performance levels and excitement, the long-term consequences- both sporting and financial -could be substantial.
Liverpool therefore absolutely need to replace Slot. But. they can't just replace him with anyone. Especially, not the latest candidate who has emerged.
There have been so many speculations about who could takeover from the Dutchman. Xabi Alonso has been touted as the favourite.
But others like Julian Nagelsmann, Cesc Fabregas and Sebastian Hoeness have also been mentioned. Some hold out a small semblance of faith that it will be Klopp returning to Anfield.
None of this could be true.
According to a report in The Telegraph, it's Roberto De Zerbi who could emerge as a contender for Liverpool.
Let's make it clear, this would be an outrageous choice from the Reds.
De Zerbi not only brings the same boring footballing style that has been characteristic of Slot but he also doesn't really represent the ethos and identity of Liverpool.
He was the manager of Mason Greenwood, who he publicly stood behind. De Zerbi was relieved of his duties at Marseille because he wasn't delivering the performances and results the board expected. This was at Marseille, not at one of the big clubs.
Liverpool don't need someone of his calibre. They need someone much better.
Replacing Slot with De Zerbi would be an outrageous call.
