Martin Keown believes Brighton manager Roberto de Zerbi does not deserve to succeed Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool

Arsenal legend Martin Keown asserted that Brighton manager Roberto de Zerbi do not deserve to succeed Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool. Keown highlighted Brighton’s form this season despite the general praise De Zerbi has enjoyed for his playing philosophy.

Brighton have registered 15 wins from 32 matches in all competitions this season, losing eight matches so far. Brighton started the season on a high note with many expecting them to compete with the top Premier League teams.

However, the Seagulls struggled to emulate their last season’s form that earned them a finish at sixth position. They currently sit in eighth place in the Premier League, having lost many away games this season.

Speaking to BBC, Keown cited De Zerbi’s recent record as the reason that makes him unfit for the Liverpool job. He said:

“I don’t think Roberto de Zerbi deserves to be linked with Liverpool right now. Not with the 16-game record he has had [with three wins, eight draws and five defeats for Brighton in their last 16 games]. It has almost gone under the carpet. We like to talk nicely about their beautiful patterns of play – we haven’t seen that for a while now. Today is the day it is going to have to turn up.”

Klopp announced that he is stepping back from the managerial role after the end of the current season. The 56-year-old cited feelings of burnout and lack of energy as the reason for his decision, surprising the football world.

Roberto De Zerbi responds to speculation surrounding him succeeding Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool pic.twitter.com/9lA7rhQ6P6

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 28, 2024

The Reds fanbase is still coming to terms with the decision as it is equivalent to losing a family member. The beloved manager is currently in his ninth season at the club, having delivered success and numerous memories.

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Klopp is leaving a formidable squad behind that is diverse, versatile and capable of functioning in different tactics. Liverpool would want a manager who could connect with the fanbase and has the tactical acumen to live up to the job’s requirements. Furthermore, the philosophy needs to be similar to the one Liverpool has operated even under Klopp.

Currently, Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso is the favourite to succeed Klopp during the summer. The former Liverpool player shares a strong bond with the fanbase, and he has proven his qualities at Leverkusen. Leverkusen are currently unbeaten this season and at the top of the Bundesliga, enjoying attacking and tactically astute football.