By Milcah Tanimu

Ruben Amorim, the coach of Sporting Lisbon, has been touted as a potential successor to Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool, according to Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha.

Palhinha, who played under Amorim at both Braga and Sporting CP, has praised the 39-year-old coach’s abilities, having witnessed his success firsthand, particularly in leading Sporting to their first Primeira Liga title in 19 years in 2021 and maintaining their strong performance this season.

Speaking to O Jogo, Palhinha acknowledged the differences in pressure between coaching a big Portuguese club and a global giant like Liverpool but expressed confidence in Amorim’s ability to handle the transition.

He stated, “Ruben is a very good coach, one of the best in Portugal, he’s done an excellent job since Braga. He has an in-depth knowledge of the game and has a close relationship with the players. The way he’s growing, he won’t be in Portugal much longer.”

Palhinha emphasized that it wouldn’t be due to a lack of opportunities if Amorim decides to leave Portugal, highlighting the coach’s dreams and ambitions, including winning another title for Sporting.

Klopp announced his intention to step down as Liverpool manager in January, setting the stage for a new era at the club. With the departure of temporary sporting director Jorg Schmadtke at the end of the January transfer window, Liverpool has been focused on restructuring its football hierarchy before turning attention to finding Klopp’s successor.