Liverpool legend appointed as new sporting director for European club after turning down other proposals

Martin Skrtel has always aimed to stay in soccer for as long as he can. The former Liverpool center-back has recently accepted a new position in the Slovakian top division.

Skrtel, who made over 300 appearances for Liverpool, is now the sporting director at DAC Dunajska Streda. According to Slovakian outlet Sport.SK, he expressed his gratitude, stating, “First of all, I’m grateful. I want to thank the owner of the club and the executive director for their trust and chance.”

He continued, “A new stage is beginning for me and I believe that I will be able to transform the experience I have gained as a player into a new job and a new position. I am glad that this chance has come and I can take this new official path in this club.”

Skrtel also emphasized his commitment: “I will do everything I can not to disappoint and fulfill my task and the goals of the club. I wanted to stay in Slovakia; there were also offers abroad, but they were not interesting to me.”

Currently, DAC Dunajska Streda sits third in the league, two places behind Champions League competitor Slovan Bratislava, which recently lost 5-1 to Celtic.

Despite turning 40 in December, the former Liverpool defender has been eager to remain in the game. Earlier this year, he participated in amateur matches for FK Hajskala Raztocno and played alongside his former teammate Daniel Agger in a charity match for LFC Legends against Ajax Legends at Anfield in March.

When discussing former teammate Xabi Alonso’s success with Bayer Leverkusen, Skrtel remarked to The Athletic, “He’s doing such a great job… The way they play and how they dominate, even against a team like Bayern, it’s crazy.” He praised Alonso’s understanding of football, saying, “I am so happy for him. He’s still young as a manager but very successful and I hope he continues in this way.”

Liverpool.com noted that it’s heartening to see former players like Skrtel remain engaged in soccer after retirement. Despite his financial security from a lengthy Premier League career, he continues to pursue his passion. Best of luck to him in this new role!

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Liverpool receives transfer boost as Euro 2024 star is set to turn down Chelsea offer

Liverpool has emerged as one of the clubs interested in Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi, according to updates from esteemed journalist Fabrizio Romano in his daily briefings.

Guehi, who impressed for England at Euro 2024, has seen three bids from Newcastle United turned down. Liverpool has shown interest in the defender since February but has not yet made an official offer.

The Potential Van-Dijk Alternative

Chelsea is reported to have included a clause in their agreement with Crystal Palace, which would give them the right to match any offer Palace receives for Guehi. Nevertheless, the ultimate decision about Guehi’s future is up to him, regardless of Chelsea exercising this clause. Newcastle United made a significant effort to acquire the centre-back over the summer but did not meet Palace’s £75 million valuation.

The situation is shaping up to be a standoff, with Crystal Palace holding firm on their valuation and Liverpool hesitant to meet the £75 million price tag. Arne Slot seems eager to strengthen his defense, and Guehi is currently earning £50,000 per week, a lower salary compared to his peers.

Marc Guehi has cemented his role in Oliver Glasner’s squad with 116 appearances for Crystal Palace and has been named captain for the 2024-25 season. His exceptional performances at Euro 2024 further secured his place in England’s national team, where he has earned 18 caps.

Liverpool is considering Guehi as a potential replacement for Virgil van Dijk if he departs the club.

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Chelsea is interested in bringing back their academy graduate but will face significant competition and may struggle to convince him to join. Sources suggest that missing out on Champions League football could greatly reduce their chances of signing Guehi.