‘Front-runner’… James Pearce says 42-year-old is the favourite to replace Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool

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It feels too early to be talking about it already. But Liverpool have to prepare sooner rather than later for what is now the inevitable at the end of the season. Replacing Jurgen Klopp will be an impossible task. It’s one though that has to be done. No matter how odd it will be to see someone new in the dugout next season.

Already there are a few candidates and names whirling about in the media. Clearly, the likes of Xabi Alonso and Roberto De Zerbi, are the ones that Liverpool are looking at the most. Although, there will be other candidates going under the radar or not yet named as well.

Who the favourite is at this stage is difficult to tell. Although The Athletic’s James Pearce seems to think there is a front-runner in the race.

James Pearce on Xabi Alonso and the front-runner

Speaking on The Athletic’s Daily Briefing podcast, Pearce was asked about the potential candidates who could replace Jurgen Klopp, and he revealed Xabi Alonso was the favourite for the position.

“Well, Xabi Alonso is clearly the frontrunner currently. I think when you look at what he’s done at Bayer Leverkusen, his work there commands respect and also of course there’s that emotional bond with Liverpool from his playing days, he was absolutely adored as a player.

“And I think he would certainly be a popular choice certainly amongst Liverpool fans I’ve spoken to since the news of Klopp’s impending exit landed on Friday.

“I think [Roberto] De Zerbi at Brighton will be another one who comes under consideration. When you look at the brand of football and the job he’s done on the south coast.

“Thomas Frank at Brentford, I know he’s got his admirers at Liverpool in terms of the job that he’s done on pretty limited resources. And then someone like [Ange] Postecoglou, I think stylistically would I think tick a box although of course it would be very difficult to get him out of Tottenham so soon into his reign there.”

Alonso is clearly the popular choice at this stage of Liverpool’s pursuit. With his Liverpool affiliations, it’s easy to see why. But there will be question marks raised as well. While he has done well as a manager – he’s only been working at the top level for a year and a half. Will that be enough to take on such a gargantuan job as the one at Liverpool? Only time will tell.