Liverpool face a significant rebuilding task ahead in the summer of 2024, regardless of their performance in the ongoing 2023-24 campaign.
The club’s is not only to appoint a new manager following Jurgen Klopp’s departure announcement but also appoint a new sporting director.
Fenway Sports Group (FSG) is actively seeking a sporting director who will steer the club’s football strategy for the foreseeable future.
Since 2022, Liverpool have had three sporting directors, and they are presently without one since Jorg Schmadtke‘s departure in January.
According to a report from The Athletic, Frederic Massara is currently “under consideration” for the role.
The 55-year-old Italian previously served as the sporting director for AC Milan and is presently on gardening leave, indicating his readiness to assume the position at Liverpool without delay.
However, Massara is not the sole candidate being evaluated by Liverpool. The club are also exploring the possibility of Florent Ghisolfi, who currently occupies the same position at Nice.
The circumstances surrounding Liverpool’s managerial situation are intricate. Although Liverpool had prior knowledge since October that Klopp would depart at the season’s end, any decisive action must await the conclusion of the season. It is imperative to afford Klopp the time and respect necessary for a gracious farewell.
Additionally, Liverpool find themselves amid a formidable season, with the potential to secure all four trophies. Consequently, any significant managerial appointments will be deferred until season-end.
However, if there is consideration for appointing Xabi Alonso, swift action is required to establish a robust framework for the new manager.
The significance of a sporting director in a major football club cannot be overstated. This individual not only strategizes for both short and long-term objectives but also plays a pivotal role in player acquisitions, although the manager retains significant influence over recruitment decisions.
In Liverpool’s case, the incoming sporting director must navigate contract negotiations for key players such as Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, in addition to identifying and securing new signings for the upcoming summer transfer window.
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