Liverpool icon Stan Collymore warned Michael Edwards about the risk of not backing the next manager correctly as other clubs improve
Stan Collymore warns Michael Edwards to back the incoming manager Arne Slot in the transfer market or risk falling behind. Collymore explained that other clubs are rejuvenating in their respective ways which could be a problem for Liverpool under transition.
The Reds manager Jurgen Klopp announced that he is leaving his position after the end of the current season. The situation prompted Liverpool’s owner FSG to take a systematic step to compensate for the loss of a successful manager.
Klopp earned his legacy by returning Liverpool to the top of the Premier League, challenging the high-spending rivals. The German installed a culture of success and development while connecting fans, management and players together as a cohesive unit.
FSG re-appointed former sporting director Edwards in a much bigger role, overseeing all the football operations on their behalf. The 44-year-old has an impeccable reputation and trust of both the owners and the fanbase for his well-calculated methodology.
Edwards played a pivotal role in Klopp’s success at Liverpool, using data science as a tool to make bargain deals. The Englishman played a key role in ushering in a successful era under Klopp on a restricted budget.
Collymore told CaughtOffside that Edwards needs to back the incoming manager Slot to make sure Liverpool remain competitive. He said:
“Michael Edwards is going to have to get it right and earn his corn this summer and support the new manager big time. And, with a potentially rejuvenated Man United with Spurs, Aston Villa Villa, West Ham and Newcastle champing at the bit to get top-four, Chelsea’s young pups coming good, and Arsenal becoming Man City’s new big rivals, could a drop off for many years to come be on the cards for Liverpool? — I think it’s very possible.”
Liverpool’s appointment of Feyenoord manager Slot is pending official announcement with several fans already aware of the hierarchy. Slot will enjoy a restricted power compared to Klopp but the Dutchman is happy to coach the players he gets.
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The 45-year-old has worked in a similar system for Feyenoord and enjoyed remarkable success while implementing the same philosophy as Klopp. Slot is inheriting a strong squad but Edwards and new sporting director Richard Hughes need to make sure he has every player he requires before next season begins.
