Etienne Reijnen had packed up his belongings in the Netherlands to move to Merseyside, but now finds himself without a job following Arne Slot's sacking as Liverpool manager. Slot was dismissed by the Anfield club on Saturday after a disappointing defence of their Premier League title.
Slot's sacking and its repercussions
The decision was made based on what the Liverpool hierarchy believes is the best path forward, feeling the team needs to evolve towards a more aggressive, front-foot, urgent style of football. The call came after the Reds lost 19 times during the season. Slot had won the Premier League in his first season, but the club's ownership felt a change was necessary to maintain progress.
Reijnen had been working alongside Robin van Persie at Feyenoord, but he left his position in May to move to Liverpool. Slot had wanted to bring Reijnen with him when he moved to Anfield in 2024, but the 39-year-old was denied a work permit at that time. Now, with Slot gone, Reijnen will not be moving to Merseyside, and he has no chance of returning to Feyenoord because, according to Dutch publication De Telegraaf, his position has already been filled.
Uncertainty at Feyenoord
Meanwhile, Robin van Persie's own future at Feyenoord is also uncertain. Devy Rigaux, the club's new technical director, recently stated: "We will take the time to analyse everything that has taken place here over the past season. In that regard, it is now up to us to get things clear and sharp before we make a decision."
Slot's farewell letter
Slot penned an open letter to Liverpool supporters over the weekend, expressing his gratitude. He said: "The connection we share goes beyond football, beyond European nights under the Anfield lights or the sound of You'll Never Walk Alone being sung from The Kop. You made me feel welcome from the start and helped me on the path. That is something I cherish."
He also paid tribute to the players, staff, and owners: "It has been a pleasure working with you all. Liverpool's 20th league title belongs to all of us and it will remain an important chapter in its history. For that we should all be proud."
Slot added: "I leave with complete confidence in what lies ahead. The players who have given so much to this club, who have upheld its values and helped create so many unforgettable moments, have built foundations that will endure. At the same time, a new generation is emerging, ready to write its own story and embrace the responsibility that comes with wearing this shirt. Change is part of football, but I know that this club will continue to make its people proud."
