Sporting CP manager Ruben Amorim would bring a new style of football to Liverpool if he were to succeed Jurgen Klopp.
Reports from Portugal have suggested that the 39-year-old has agreed to a three-year deal with the Reds. The ECHO understands that it is not the case as FSG’s Micahel Edwards and Liverpool are still in the process of identifying possible candidates, though Amorim has been impressive during his four years at Sporting.
Amorim could end the current season with a league and cup double, having already won the Primeira Liga and two Taca da Ligas during his tenure. However, his preferred 3-4-3 formation is markedly different from Klopp’s familiar 4-3-3 system. Here’s a look at how Liverpool could line up under Amorim.
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Whatever the formation, Virgil van Dijkwill be at the heart of Liverpool’s defence next season. The captain plays as part of a back three with Netherlands at international level and would be alongside Ibrahima Konate, while Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah would fight for the third spot. To rely on a back three system across all competitions, the Reds may have to recruit or promote younger centre-backs, especially with Joel Matip’s contract coming to an end.
Wingbacks are important to Amorim’s system, demonstrated by right-sided Geny Catamo scoring a brace in Sporting’s 2-1 win over Benfica at the weekend. Trent Alexander-Arnold has previously been trialled in the role by England boss Gareth Southgate, but it remains to be seen how a new long-term position would impact Alexander-Arnold’s influence. Andy Robertson is regularly deployed as a wingback for
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