Arne Slot's next Liverpool assistant? Agent rules out coaching role at Anfield for Reds legend after Johnny Heitinga exit

The agent of Liverpool hero Dirk Kuyt says the former striker will not be taking up the role of Slot's vacant assistant manager this summer, following the departure of Johnny Heitinga to Ajax. The Dutchman has been linked with the role at a time when he is expected to leave Belgian side Beerschot.

His agent, Rob Jansen, said on the KieftJansenEgmondGijp podcast, via Sport Nieuws: “No, it will be a different assistant coach. That would have been great for him. Liverpool’s assistant will be someone else."

Heitinga was very highly thought of by Slot and Liverpool, so it was a blow to lose him to Ajax. Now the club are trying to find his successor as they seek to retain their Premier League title in the 2025/26 campaign. But it seems a fairytale return for Reds favourite Kuyt won't happen.

While Liverpool continue to search for a new assistant coach for Slot, the Dutchman and his players will now enjoy their summer breaks before returning to pre-season training at some point in July.