Liverpool are keen to add Everton hero Johnny Heitinga to Arne Slot’s staff

Former Everton star Johnny Heitinga has revealed that he is in talks with Liverpool, as new boss Arne Slot considers a surprising addition to his coaching staff. Slot, who replaced Jurgen Klopp, is currently overseeing his first pre-season at Anfield and has already made several backroom changes.

Among these, Spike Hulshoff has been confirmed as his assistant coach, with Aaron Briggs, Ruben Peeters, and Fabian Otte also joining the setup. The Dutch influence is on the rise as Heitinga could soon be on his way to Merseyside, this time in red.

The Dutchman, a hero of sorts at Everton, is in discussions with Liverpool about a coaching role. Speaking to De Telegraaf, Heitinga confirmed”

“I’m in talks with Liverpool. All I can say now is that I have been approached and that my agent Rob Jansen and I are in discussions.”

Heitinga enjoyed a successful playing career, including a notable stint with Everton. He played for the Toffees from 2009 to 2014, making 140 appearances in all competitions and being named the club’s Player of the Year for the 2011-12 season. Despite the fierce rivalry between both teams on Merseyside, Heitinga’s rise as a coach has seen Liverpool sit up and take notice.

After leaving Everton, Heitinga played for Fulham and Hertha Berlin before returning to Ajax Amsterdam, his boyhood club. It was at Ajax that he began his coaching career, initially taking charge of the reserve side before being appointed as the first-team manager in January 2023. He achieved a commendable record, winning 14 of his 22 games in charge, before departing at the end of the season.

Heitinga’s next coaching chapter brought him to West Ham United, where he served as an assistant to his former Toffees manager David Moyes. His influence was significant, with Moyes hinting that Heitinga played a crucial role in completing deals for players like Edson Alvarez and Mohammed Kudus. Given Ajax’s perchance for producing talents, the Heitinga connection could open doors for Liverpool in terms of recruitment.

Heitinga’s extensive experience as a player and coach, particularly his familiarity with the Premier League and his success at Ajax, could bring valuable insights and expertise to Liverpool’s backroom team. The recruitment behind the scenes at Kirkby continues as former Manchester City man Aaron Briggs is set to join as the elite development coach, replacing Vitor Matos.

More Liverpool News

• European Cup winning star bids goodbye to ‘Beautiful’ Liverpool; bats for Anfield inclusion to the seven wonders
• Manchester City threaten to derail Liverpool FC’s ‘patient’ pursuit of Premier League star
• Manchester United legends assert Liverpool star’s best position; Euro 2024 performances vindicates claim

While his Everton legacy adds an intriguing twist, his professional capabilities and knowledge make him a strong candidate for the role. This move exemplifies Slot’s strategic approach to building a diverse and experienced coaching staff.

Should the talks be successful, Heitinga’s inclusion could strengthen Liverpool’s coaching dynamics, providing a blend of tactical acumen and firsthand Premier League experience that could benefit the team. More so, he will also be keen to make amends for how the stint at the London Stadium eventually turned out. Hopefully, Heitinga will not be the only ‘Blue’ hero to arrive at Anfield this summer, with Anthony Gordons still very much on our radar.