All things must end - and so will Klopp's Liverpool reign. Here's who could come to replace him

If Jurgen Klopp indeed departs from Anfield in 2026, several potential replacements could drive Liverpool forward. Here are five candidates currently favoured by bookmakers.

Pep Lijnders

Dutchman Pep Lijnders has long been considered a possible successor to Klopp, having been an integral part of the coaching staff since his return to the club in 2018. The idea of a manager being succeeded by their assistant is a scenario many Liverpool fans view positively, given the historical success of this transition with Bill Shankly and Bob Paisley.

While Lijnders may not have extensive experience as a head coach, he is highly regarded within the club, and many envision him continuing Klopp's triumphant reign.

Roberto De Zerbi

De Zerbi, the current manager of Brighton & Hove Albion, is widely admired in football circles, with endorsements from figures like Klopp and Pep Guardiola. He employs a risky attacking system that challenges high-pressing teams, and his adaptability and ability to bring out the best in his players have been noteworthy. De Zerbi's entertaining style of football and knack for thriving despite significant squad changes could make him an appealing choice for Liverpool.

Xabi Alonso

Alonso, a former Liverpool player, has been rumoured as a potential future manager for Real Madrid but has been impressing at Bayer Leverkusen. He employs an exciting attacking style and has a strong affinity for Liverpool, expressing a desire to manage at Anfield. While Liverpool may not be his immediate next job, Alonso is building a strong case as a potential successor to Klopp in the future.

Julian Nagelsmann

Nagelsmann, the manager of Germany's national team, recently took the helm, but Klopp's contract extends until 2026. The possibility of Nagelsmann becoming available due to possible struggles with the national team could open the door for Liverpool. Nagelsmann, known for his tactical acumen, had a successful stint with RB Leipzig and could add more trophies to his resume.

Steven Gerrard

Gerrard's name was once linked to a potential return to Liverpool, but discussions have quieted after his time at Aston Villa. While he faced challenges in the Premier League, his success in stopping Celtic's title streak with Rangers and strong early form at Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia might encourage fans. However, questions remain about whether his achievements in the Gulf state would translate to a swift return to the Premier League, especially with a club as prominent as Liverpool.

EFL CUP - ROUND OF 32

Tuesday

Bradford City - Middlesbrough 0-2 (0-1)

/Latte Lath 21, Rogers 54/

Exeter - Luton 1-0 (0-0)

/Mitchell 83/

Ipswich Town - Wolves 3-2 (2-2)

/Hutchinson 28, Ladapo 39, Taylor 58 - Hwang 4, Toti 15/

Mansfield - Peterborough 2-2 (1-1)

/Swan 5 pen Akins 90+3 pen - Clarke-Harris 30, 47/

Mansfield win on penalties.

Port Vale - Sutton 2-1 (0-0)

/Thomas 49, Ojo 83 - Kasimu 70/

Salford - Burnley 0-4 (0-3)

/Berge 12, Larsen 20, O'Shea 27, Odobert 81/

Manchester United - Crystal Palace 3-0 (2-0)

/Garnacho 21, Casemiro 27, Martial 55/

Wednesday

21.45: (1.75) Aston Villa (3.60) Everton (4.90)

21.45: (2.05) Blackburn (3.50) Cardiff (3.60)

21.45: (1.65) Bournemouth (3.70) Stoke (5.60)

21.45: (3.45) Brentford (3.50) Arsenal (2.10)

21.45: (2.45) Chelsea (3.45) Brighton (2.80)

21.45: (1.60) Fulham (3.90) Norwich (5.80)

21.45: (9.00) Lincoln City (5.00) West Ham (1.35)

21.45: (1.45) Liverpool (4.50) Leicester (7.00)

22.00: (2.80) Newcastle (3.40) Man City (2.50)

***odds are subject to change