Liverpool are reportedly preparing for a significant shake-up behind the scenes as the club look to strengthen their coaching structure ahead of the new season. The move comes at a crucial moment for Arne Slot, who is aiming to stabilise his project at Anfield while also easing growing speculation about his long-term future.
The Dutch manager is believed to be pushing for a reunion with one of his most trusted former colleagues, signaling a clear intent to reshape Liverpool’s identity both on and off the pitch.
Arne Slot Targets Familiar Face from Feyenoord Era
According to reports from the English media, Slot wants to bring in Etienne Reijnen, his former assistant at Feyenoord, as part of a wider restructuring of Liverpool’s coaching staff.
Reijnen is not a new name in Slot’s coaching philosophy. The pair worked closely together in the Netherlands, building a strong professional relationship based on tactical clarity, training structure, and set-piece innovation.
However, the move has not been straightforward. Reijnen has previously been unable to join Liverpool FC due to incomplete coaching qualifications and work permit complications. Despite that setback, Liverpool are now reportedly ready to revisit the idea once his licensing process is fully completed.
Set-Piece Specialist at the Heart of Liverpool’s Plans
One of the key reasons behind Liverpool’s renewed interest in Reijnen is his expertise in set-piece situations—a growing deciding factor in modern football.
At Feyenoord, his influence was clearly visible. The Dutch side scored 11 goals from set-pieces in a single season while conceding only four, showcasing both attacking creativity and defensive organisation.
By contrast, Liverpool’s recent record highlights a clear imbalance. During the 2025/2026 campaign, the Reds managed 15 goals from set-pieces but conceded 16 from similar situations. For a club competing at the highest level, that defensive vulnerability has raised serious concerns within the coaching staff.
This statistical gap has reportedly become one of the main triggers for internal changes under Slot’s leadership.
Internal Changes Already Underway at Anfield
Liverpool’s coaching evolution is not just about new arrivals—it is also about departures.
Earlier in the season, Slot made the bold decision to part ways with set-piece coach Aaron Briggs after repeated issues in defensive organisation. The move was seen as a clear statement that underperformance in key tactical areas would not be tolerated.
In addition, uncertainty continues to surround assistant coach Giovanni van Bronckhorst, who is reportedly being linked with a potential return to Feyenoord. If that move materialises, it would open the door even wider for Reijnen to step into a senior coaching role at Anfield.
A Difficult Season for Liverpool Under Slot
The push for structural change comes after a challenging campaign for Liverpool. The club failed to retain the Premier League title and suffered disappointing exits from several cup competitions.
These setbacks have inevitably placed pressure on Slot, with questions emerging over whether his tactical approach is fully aligned with the demands of English football.
Despite the criticism, the club’s hierarchy appears willing to give the Dutch manager more time—especially if he can reshape the coaching setup to better reflect his long-term vision.
Bringing in trusted figures like Reijnen is seen as part of that wider rebuilding process.
Set-Piece Weakness Becomes a Tactical Priority
Modern football increasingly rewards teams that dominate set-piece situations, both offensively and defensively. For Liverpool, this has become a clear area of concern.
Opponents have frequently exploited defensive lapses from corners and free-kicks, while the Reds themselves have struggled to maintain consistency in their attacking routines.
Slot’s interest in Reijnen suggests a direct response to this issue. The idea is not only to improve organisation but also to introduce a more structured and data-driven approach to set-piece preparation.
If successful, this could quickly turn one of Liverpool’s weaknesses into a competitive advantage.
Mixed Reaction from Supporters Over Long-Term Direction
While the planned coaching overhaul signals ambition, it has not entirely silenced doubts among Liverpool supporters.
Some fans see the changes as a necessary evolution under a new managerial era, believing Slot deserves time to implement his system fully. Others remain unconvinced, pointing to inconsistent performances and questioning whether the squad is adapting quickly enough.
The uncertainty is reflected in ongoing debates about the club’s direction, especially after a season that fell short of expectations.
What Comes Next for Liverpool?
If Liverpool succeed in bringing Etienne Reijnen to Anfield, it would represent more than just a staff change—it would mark a deeper shift in how the club approaches tactical preparation.
Slot’s willingness to reunite with trusted colleagues suggests he is determined to build a stable and familiar coaching environment, rather than constantly adjusting to external pressure.
However, the success of this strategy will ultimately depend on results. In elite football, coaching structure only matters if it translates into performances on the pitch.
For now, Liverpool are entering a crucial phase of transition. The decisions made in the coming months could define not just the next season—but the entire direction of the Arne Slot era at Anfield.
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