Liverpool lost 2-1 to Aston Villa in the FA Cup semi-finals on Sunday, putting manager Brendan Rodgers under pressure with another trophy-less season on the cards.
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The Reds also look likely to not be involved in the Champions League in the next campaign. They are currently seven points behind fourth placed Manchester City in the Premier League, although the Merseyside club do have a game in hand. Former boss Kenny Dalglish was fired after winning the League Cup and failing to get in to Europe’s premier club competition.
Rodgers hasn’t even managed to do this, meaning someone else could come in. Here are five candidates…
5) Jurgen Klopp, Borussia Dortmund
After announcing that he will be leaving the Bundesliga side in the summer, the German has become one of the hottest properties on the continent. While he would be perfect for the job, it isn’t guaranteed the German will be keen on the role.
4) Frank de Boer, Ajax
Long linked with Premier League sides, the Dutchman is seemingly highly rated in the game. A club of the Reds’ stature is probably the best that he can hope for as well, meaning that John W. Henry may have a chance of luring the 44-year-old to Anfield.
3) Rafa Benitez, Napoli
Although he has gone on to manage rivals Chelsea, most Liverpool fans still respect the Spaniard for what he did at the club. However, would the ex-Valencia boss’ playing style fit in with the young and pacy side that currently resides on Merseyside?
2) Ronald Koeman, Southampton
The former Barcelona player has done a great job with the Saints this season, and may still finish ahead of the Reds. However, with the South Coast club not afraid of selling their players at the drop of a hat, he may be keen on a move to Liverpool. The Dutchman’s philosophy would also fit the club’s current style.
1) Manuel Pellegrini, Manchester City
If the Citizens keep their much maligned boss then this is a no go, but should he leave the Etihad then Liverpool can do a lot worse. The work he did at Villarreal and Malaga show what the 61-year-old can do with less fancied clubs in Europe and domestically.