Liverpool Staff Shake-Up: Johnny Heitinga Set to Leave for Ajax Manager Role
Liverpool’s preparations for the upcoming season aren’t limited to new signings—changes are underway behind the scenes as well.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Johnny Heitinga is set to leave Liverpool after being granted permission by the club to take up a two-year managerial role at Ajax. The move marks a return to Amsterdam for the former Netherlands international, who previously played for the Dutch giants.
Heitinga, who joined Liverpool’s coaching staff last summer, was part of Arne Slot’s backroom team during the club’s Premier League title-winning campaign. His coaching experience also includes a stint at West Ham United under David Moyes.
Slot’s Staff to See More Changes?
Heitinga’s exit creates a notable vacancy within Slot’s coaching setup as the club begins its preseason planning. With Marino Pusic—Slot’s former assistant at Feyenoord—still unattached, speculation is growing that he could be reunited with the Liverpool boss to reinforce the backroom team.
This move follows ongoing transfer activity, with Romano also confirming Liverpool’s pursuit of key targets such as Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong.
While high-profile player acquisitions will dominate headlines, backroom stability and continuity will be equally crucial for Liverpool’s ambitions next season. Replacing Heitinga swiftly and effectively could be a vital step in ensuring Arne Slot’s transition into his first full campaign at Anfield goes smoothly.
