Former Liverpool star sacked as manager after suffering relegation

Former Liverpool forward Kuyt has left Beerschot after the Belgian club were relegated from the country's top flight. The ex-Netherlands international had led them back into the Jupiler Pro League for the first time since 2021-22, but the Antwerp outfit finished bottom of the table and failed to win any of their six relegation play-off fixtures, resulting in Kuyt's departure.

Beerschot could only manage three league victories during the 2024-25 campaign, conceding 60 goals in the process.

A statement from Beerschot reads: "Beerschot and head coach Dirk Kuyt are parting ways. The collaboration will not be extended.

"Kuyt took over from Andreas Wieland in early 2024 and led the team to the Challenger Pro League title that season. Last season, however, was less successful, resulting in relegation.

"The club sincerely thanks Dirk Kuyt for his dedication, commitment and positive contribution. His energy and involvement were a source of inspiration within the group of players. We wish him every success in the rest of his coaching career.

"The new head coach will be introduced later today."

Kuyt began his coaching career shortly after his retirement as a player, coaching youngsters at Feyenoord before taking the manager's job for an ill-fated spell in charge of ADO Den Haag. He only lasted 17 matches but he was back in work a little over a year later, helping Beerschot win the 2023-24 Challenger Pro League.

Kuyt will be on the lookout for a new job over the summer and has been linked with a return to Anfield. Football Insider claimed last month that the 44-year-old was being lined up by Arne Slot to replace John Heitinga, who has taken the top job at Ajax, on the Reds' coaching staff.