Arne Slot’s next Liverpool assistant could be a familiar face | OneFootball

Liverpool Vacancy Prompts Fresh Talk Around Dirk Kuyt’s Coaching Role

Liverpool’s summer reshuffle has begun in earnest, with Arne Slot already facing a coaching vacancy before a ball has been kicked in pre-season. John Heitinga’s exit for Ajax creates a notable gap in the backroom staff, just as Slot prepares for his first full campaign in charge at Anfield.

Yet behind this change lies a quietly intriguing subplot, one that stretches back years and reveals a connection that may well resurface – the bond between Arne Slot and Liverpool cult hero Dirk Kuyt.

Familiar Names in the Frame

With Heitinga’s ambitions leading him back to Amsterdam in pursuit of a head coach role, Liverpool are left searching for a new deputy to support Slot’s long-term assistant, Sipke Hulshoff.

One name that has naturally emerged is Marino Pusic, who formed part of the coaching triumvirate with Slot and Hulshoff during their successful spell at Feyenoord. His appointment would represent continuity – the type of trusted figure Slot often leans on.

But there is another possibility, more romantic in nature, wrapped in red nostalgia and laden with potential – Dirk Kuyt.

Kuyt’s Missed Chance with Slot

Kuyt, currently managing Belgian side Beerschot, revealed earlier this year that Slot once extended a coaching invitation his way. Speaking to Peter Crouch on That Peter Crouch Podcast, Kuyt recalled how close he came to joining forces with Slot following his retirement.

“I know him very well,” Kuyt said. “I had the opportunity when I retired from football to become his assistant at AZ.”

“I didn’t choose to become his assistant which I regret of course now! But when he was at Feyenoord he gave me the opportunity to work a week alongside him to see how he’s training and preparing for a game, so that was really interesting and of course I follow him very closely.”

There’s a wistful tone to Kuyt’s words, as if a door was closed too soon, or an instinct ignored. What’s clear is the respect he holds for Slot and the interest he’s maintained in his fellow Dutchman’s career.

Kuyt Open to English Coaching Return

Kuyt’s fondness for English football remains undiminished. In that same podcast conversation, the 44-year-old admitted he’s eager to return to the UK in a coaching capacity.

“You have to be a little bit crazy to be in the job because it takes so much of your time but I’m addicted to football, I love the game and I love to be a coach,” Kuyt said.

“So, hopefully I can develop myself more to one day be back here in this country.”

It may not be this summer, and there are no indications yet that Liverpool will turn to Kuyt as a direct replacement for Heitinga. But the threads are there – the prior offer, the mutual respect, the history in red.

In a summer of transition under Arne Slot, Liverpool fans may yet see familiar faces return to the fold. With Dirk Kuyt’s coaching ambition clear and his bond with Slot already established, it would be foolish to entirely rule out a reunion that brings together two men who understand the Liverpool way.