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Tag: FSG

  • With a startling £60 billion deal, Liverpool’s owners FSG are getting closer to making a significant move.

    With a startling £60 billion deal, Liverpool’s owners FSG are getting closer to making a significant move.

    With a startling £60 billion deal, Liverpool's owners FSG are getting closer to making a significant move.

    FSG has long desired to expand its collection of sporting assets with an NBA team.

    A significant development in the US has brought another possible acquisition one step closer as Fenway Sports Group continues to evaluate its options regarding the addition of another football team to its portfolio.

    It is no secret that the owners of Liverpool want to expand their collection of sporting assets to include an NBA team. Las Vegas is the obvious favourite, with LeBron James, a basketball legend and current Los Angeles Lakers star, and FSG partner, expected to lead the initiative.

    James, together with Tom Werner, the chairman of FSG and Liverpool, and Gerry Cardinale, the founder of RedBird Capital, another partner of FSG, have previously discussed the possibility of expanding into the NBA.

    Before the NBA can consider expanding from 30 to 32 teams, a number of obstacles must be overcome. First, a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) must be in place for the upcoming few years. Secondly, a new media rights deal must be negotiated because the current $26 billion deal has just 12 months left on it.

    The CBA was reached last summer, and the NBA appears to have reached an agreement this past week to pay an astounding $76 billion (£59.8 billion) for the next set of rights, which will span 11 years. After that is decided upon and completed, focus will shift to expansion, for which FSG is currently making preparations.

    The NBA commissioner, Adam Silver, stated, “We want to figure out what our media relationships are going to look like before we turn to expansion.” Without a doubt, Vegas is on our list.

    With a startling £60 billion deal, Liverpool's owners FSG are getting closer to making a significant move.

    That time is almost here, and Seattle presents another viable location for an NBA expansion team. While it will take some time to establish a team on the court, the process of expanding the league could get underway before the year is out.

    At first, there was talk of paying $2 billion for an NBA expansion franchise, which would then be split among the league’s 30 teams—who must first consent to the league’s expansion—for that franchise. However, the price range will probably be closer to $5 billion with a massive media deal. FSG and its partners will incur significant costs in this endeavour.

    James’ desire to play a season in the NBA with his son Bronny as a way to round off his playing career is another significant development. James Jr. is projected to be selected in the first round of the NBA draft this summer, making it possible for the father and son to play basketball together before James Sr. ends his illustrious career.

    Over the past two years, potential locations in Vegas have been discussed. The most recent one occurred in April when a development company called LVXP identified land on the Las Vegas Strip for an NBA arena and resort. Sin City wants to expand its sporting offerings by adding professional basketball, NFL, and NHL teams, as well as the Formula One Grand Prix.

    The PGA Tour’s commercial operations were recently taken over by FSG, which established FSG International to manage its overseas sporting portfolio, which will eventually include a football team. FSG is focused on growing and expanding its portfolio of sporting assets, which is currently valued at $12 billion, of which Liverpool accounts for about $5.5 billion (£4.3 billion). Other sporting investments include the Boston Red Sox, Pittsburgh Penguins, and NASCAR team RFK Racing.

  • Confirmed are Philippe Coutinho’s conversations as the former Liverpool player prepares to return to football amid a “FSG deal”

    Confirmed are Philippe Coutinho’s conversations as the former Liverpool player prepares to return to football amid a “FSG deal”

    Confirmed are Philippe Coutinho's conversations as the former Liverpool player prepares to return to football amid a "FSG deal"

    Philippe Coutinho, a former star for Liverpool, may be playing again for Vasco da Gama, his childhood team in Brazil. According to reports, FSG is interested in purchasing the team.

    Philippe Coutinho, a former star midfielder for Liverpool, may be joining his childhood team, Vasco da Gama. The 31-year-old Brazilian has played all of the season on loan at Al-Duhail in Qatar; his parent team, Aston Villa, has shown little desire to use his skills.

    This is in line with Globo’s (via Anfield Watch) allegation that Villa would be willing to terminate Coutinho’s contract to facilitate the transfer. The former Red is under contract until 2026 and makes $8.3 million (£6.5 million/€7.6 million) a year, according to FBRef. Writing off his term would not be cheap.

    When asked if negotiations were ongoing with Coutinho’s team, Vasco president Pedrinho recently responded, “It’s happening.” As a result, the Brazilian international might soon tangentially rejoin the Liverpool family.

    With Coutinho’s $180.3 million (£142 million/€165.9 million) transfer price to Barcelona in 2018, the Reds were able to bring in two important players in Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker. However, the Brazilian’s career never quite reached the heights he did at Anfield.

    Confirmed are Philippe Coutinho's conversations as the former Liverpool player prepares to return to football amid a "FSG deal"

    He did, after all, win championships with Barcelona and Bayern Munich, but he never seemed to be a really important player. Only 68 goals have been contributed by Coutinho in European club football since he made 96 goals for Liverpool, and that was after he became one of the most expensive players in sports history.

    Not only is Coutinho not dominating Qatari football, but in his 22 outings for Al-Duhail, he has six goals and three assists. He could be able to enjoy the last few years of his career by going back to his native country.

    Vasco’s ownership may also change in the near future. Earlier this week, Brazilian courts returned ownership of Vasco to the club directors, who were tied to 777 Partners’ takeover attempt at Everton.

    Globo has stated that FSG is looking into the possibilities of purchasing Vasco and has done its research in advance of a possible deal. Gaining access to Coutinho’s childhood club would help Liverpool’s owners launch their multi-club concept in South America.

    According to Liverpool.com as terrible as it is to say, it looks like Coutinho’s time playing European football is finished, He wouldn’t make much of an impression in Qatar and was unwanted by Unai Emery at Villa, so it would make sense for him to go back to Brazil, where he would be loved. After been acquired from Liverpool, he is probably already well-liked by FSG, and it’s possible that he may soon be playing for one of its teams again.

  • Based on data experts, FSG might purchase four clubs in order to collaborate with Liverpool FC.

    Based on data experts, FSG might purchase four clubs in order to collaborate with Liverpool FC.

    Four clubs from various areas have been identified by analytics specialists as potential acquisition targets for Fenway Sports Group

    Four clubs from various areas have been identified by analytics specialists as potential acquisition targets for Fenway Sports Group, as they seek to expand their partnership with Liverpool.

    As part of their plan to diversify into the football industry, FSG has named Michael Edwards as their new CEO of Football.

    Following Edwards’ hiring, the ownership group declared their intention to buy a different team, which should help Liverpool acquire players.

    In light of this, sports tech startup Prospect, which uses AI to support professionals in the industry, has identified four teams that FSG may choose to pursue.

    These are Dundee United (Scotland), Gil Vicente (Portugal), Toulouse (France), and KVC Westerlo (Belgium).

    Four clubs from various areas have been identified by analytics specialists as potential acquisition targets for Fenway Sports Group

    According to their analysis, FSG will probably use their next club to help Liverpool with:

    Increased flexibility with work permits for loans and transfers is crucial.

    Significant impact on tactical approach for the development of loan players

    Significant: Expanding knowledge networks and scouting

    As previously mentioned, the Premier League has partnerships with six teams in France, which is the highest number of any country. The other teams are from Saudi Arabia (five), Belgium (four), the USA (three), Brazil (two), India (two), Portugal (two), and Scotland (two).

    Prospect ignores Saudi Arabia, the USA, Brazil, and India for a variety of geopolitical and economical reasons.

    Liverpool is expected to concentrate on France, Belgium, Portugal, and Scotland, each of which has advantages and disadvantages.

    It is stated that the following are reasonably priced to buy: Gil Vicente (£6.8m and £10.3m), Dundee United (£8.6m to £12.3m), Toulouse (£43m to £68.5m), and KVC Westerlo (£6m to £9.4m).

    Four clubs from various areas have been identified by analytics specialists as potential acquisition targets for Fenway Sports Group

    Additionally, Liverpool is expected to gain from them all in a variety of ways, including superior player exposure, access to new markets, and avoidance of work visa complications.

    Prospect determined that Toulouse was the best team to buy, considering that RedBird Capital, FSG’s partners, already owned the Ligue 1 team and there have been rumours of a potential sale.

    It should be noted, nevertheless, that considering Pedro Marques’ prior experience at Benfica, his selection as FSG’s new technical director for football may indicate a preference for the Portuguese market.

    According to Prospect’s research, FSG may consider exploring markets in Sweden, Brazil, the Netherlands, and Denmark. The complete report is well worth reading.

    More news….

    Following Man United’s error, Jurgen Klopp sent Jarell Quansah a message.

    During Liverpool's tie with Manchester United, Quansah committed a terrible mistake. Bruno Fernandes scored from long range thanks to an assist from the centre back.

    During Liverpool’s tie with Manchester United, Quansah committed a terrible mistake.

    Bruno Fernandes scored from long range thanks to an assist from the centre back.

    Young defender is urged by Klopp to “learn from it.”

    Jarell Quansah made a mistake on Sunday that cost Liverpool the lead in their 2-2 draw with Manchester United, but Jurgen Klopp believes Quansah will learn from it.

    After the 21-year-old misdirected Virgil van Dijk’s pass, the ball ended up at Bruno Fernandes’ feet. With a fantastic long-range shot, Fernandes caught Caiomhin Kelleher off guard and tied the score at one.

    After Liverpool had showered down 15 attempts on Andre Onana’s goal, Fernandes’ effort was the home team’s first and represented a turning point in the encounter at Old Trafford.

    Fortunately for Liverpool, they were able to salvage a late point after Kobbie Mainoo had given United the lead. With six minutes left, Mohamed Salah scored from the penalty spot after Harvey Elliott was ruled to have been fouled by Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

    After the game, Klopp spoke, quickly clearing Quansah of any responsibility for his error and emphasising instead how the young player grows from it and improves going forward.

    “As a football player in the Premier League, and playing for Liverpool, I have the bad news it will not be the last mistake in his life, unfortunately,” Klopp stated.

    “Life is like that. He handled it really well, in my opinion, and so did we. However, there was no social media when our heroes made these kinds of errors in the past, so perhaps he’s wise enough to turn that off.

    We want to play build-up, maintain possession of the ball, and play football. While it’s not ideal, bigger errors are made in football. Bruno recognised the chance and seized it, and that is still the case.

    “It just happens; there is no blame or criticism of any kind. The best thing that can happen is that he will learn from it.”

    Liverpool’s failure to gain ground on Arsenal, who defeated Brighton & Hove Albion 3-0 on Saturday, resulted in the two teams drawing level on 71 points, one point clear of leaders Manchester City. Most importantly, Mikel Arteta’s team has three more goals than Klopp’s team and has a better goal differential of nine.

  • Xabi Alonso’s “situation changes,” and FSG, the owners of Liverpool, are “in talks” to acquire a second team.

    Xabi Alonso’s “situation changes,” and FSG, the owners of Liverpool, are “in talks” to acquire a second team.

    Xabi Alonso's "situation changes," and FSG, the owners of Liverpool, are "in talks" to acquire a second team.

    most recent Liverpool news as With ties to Liverpool, Xabi Alonso’s future is still up in the air. According to reports, FSG is getting closer to purchasing a top-tier French team.

    This weekend marks Liverpool’s return to Premier League action, but the search for the team’s next manager is still ongoing. Richard Hughes’s arrival as sporting director ought to help things along, but Xabi Alonso seems to be the team’s priority aim, so nothing has changed. A big change may also be coming from FSG, which is run by former Liverpool executive Michael Edwards. This is your summary of the most recent Liverpool news.

    Alonso’s circumstances shift in light of Liverpool’s interest.

    Jürgen Klopp is nearing the end of his term as manager of Liverpool, and Xabi Alonso is still the favourite to succeed him. With Bayer Leverkusen undefeated in all competitions this year, Alonso has led his team to the top of the Bundesliga.

    Liverpool is reportedly looking at other options in case it is unable to convince Alonso to rejoin Anfield, and Bayern Munich is eager to name the Spaniard. Although the 44-year-old’s thoughts have reportedly altered due to his on-field performance, staying at Leverkusen hasn’t been ruled out, according to writer Fabrizio Romano.

    He revealed to Caught Offside that, even before to Klopp’s announcement of his desire to quit Liverpool, Alonso was ‘evaluating his options’ at year’s end. It is claimed that Alonso’s circumstances have ‘totally transformed’ as his Leverkusen team continues to roll.

    There are rumours that he wants no distractions from now until the season is over. Bosses at Leverkusen seem to feel the same way, and a decision over his future is not expected until the summer.

    Michael Edwards and FSG aim for a French team?

    Xabi Alonso's "situation changes," and FSG, the owners of Liverpool, are "in talks" to acquire a second team.

    Owners of Liverpool, FSG, are rumoured to have initiated discussions about purchasing Toulouse in Ligue 1. Earlier this month, Michael Edwards, the former sporting director of the Reds, rejoined FSG as the company’s football CEO.

    He will now be in charge of Liverpool, and he was instrumental in Richard Hughes’ selection as sporting director. Edwards, who had previously rejected FSG, stated that his desire to ‘acquire and control’ a second club played a significant part in his decision to accept the position.

    He continued, “It was crucial that I returned with renewed vigour and energy, having fresh challenges and opportunities,” in a statement released by FSG. I think that in order to be competitive, the present football portfolio needs to be expanded and invested in.”

    A plan to buy out Toulouse is reportedly in the works as FSG looks to expand into a multi-club network, according to Football Insider. Liverpool defeated the French team 3-2 away from home in their rematch in the Europa League earlier this season after winning 5-1 at Anfield.

    The two teams are already associated; RedBird Capital, the principal owner of Toulouse, owns 11% of FSG, and Damien Comolli, the former head of the Reds, is the team’s president. Toulouse is only six points clear of the relegation spots despite being in 11th place in the standings right now.

  • Liverpool is one of the world’s TOP FIVE most valuable football teams.

    Liverpool is one of the world’s TOP FIVE most valuable football teams.

    Liverpool is one of the world's TOP FIVE most valuable football teams.

    An American survey has placed Liverpool in the top 30 all-sports franchises and among the top five most valuable football teams in the world.

    The NFL’s Dallas Cowboys are ranked first overall on a list of the top 100 sports franchises by sports business site Sportico, with a valuation of $9.2 billion (£7.3 billion).

    Eleven European football teams—Manchester United, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Liverpool, Bayern Munich, Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea, PSG, Tottenham, and Juventus—make the cut, despite the fact that American teams predominate the list.

    Liverpool is ranked fourth out of all football teams and is in 29th place overall, between the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Cubs, with a valuation of $4.71 billion (£3.73 billion).

    Sportico explains the reasoning behind the numbers as follows: “Sportico’s most recent valuations for the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, Formula One, and international football are the foundation for the top 100 franchises.”

    “Sportico estimated each team’s revenue to determine the market value of the sports franchises by using publicly accessible data and financial records—as well as speaking with individuals who are familiar with team finances, such as sports bankers and attorneys who handle deals on a daily basis. Team members, including owners, CEOs of the team or parent company, presidents, chief financial officers, and public relations staff, in addition to investors and industry experts, verified this information.”

    From a Liverpool standpoint, it’s interesting to note that the Boston Red Sox, another significant team owned by the Reds’ FSG, are valued at $5.21 billion (£4.13 billion), ranking 20th on the list.

    Additionally, Liverpool’s worth is reported to have increased by 14% from the previous year.

    More news…….

    Report: Xabi Alonso response to Liverpool job after contact made

    Report: Xabi Alonso response to Liverpool job after contact made

    Xabi Alonso, a legend of Liverpool, has been linked to a return to Anfield ever since Jurgen Klopp made his departure known.

    According to reports, Liverpool has gotten in touch with Xabi Alonso to gauge his interest in succeeding Jurgen Klopp after the German retires this summer.

    The French publication Foot Mercato has confirmed this, chasing rumours that linked the Bayer Leverkusen manager to a reunion with his old team nearly as soon as Klopp declared his choice last month.

    During his time at Anfield, Alonso was a hugely popular player. Under Rafa Benitez, his elegant midfield stylings were crucial to their victories in the 2005 Champions League, the 2006 FA Cup, and their most convincing Premier League run to date, which ended in a narrow loss to Manchester United in 2009.

    After leaving the team that summer, Alonso spent his last seasons at Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. He then turned to coaching, beginning his managerial career with Real Sociedad B until joining Leverkusen in 2022.

    The former Spanish international is currently leading the team to their first-ever Bundesliga championship after doing admirably in the role. After defeating Bayern of second place 3-0 on Saturday, Leverkusen leads the table by five points with 13 games remaining and an undefeated record.

    It makes sense, then, that Alonso has played coy about the speculations that he is interested in joining Liverpool, stating only that he is content with his current position and committed to finishing the task at hand.

    In Foot Mercato’s reporting, that position has been reaffirmed without specific quotations, implying that they have independently investigated the matter.

    Although Liverpool leads the table by just two points above Manchester City and Arsenal—the latter of which has a game in hand—Jurgen Klopp is hoping to end his career on a high note.

    Next weekend, Liverpool will play Chelsea in the League Cup final at Wembley before taking on Southampton in the FA Cup fifth round. Next Friday, they will also find out who their opponents are in the Europa League round of 16.

  • ‘Huge’ transfer kitty from FSG to be received by Liverpool’s new manager

    ‘Huge’ transfer kitty from FSG to be received by Liverpool’s new manager

    The transfer budget that Liverpool will provide its next manager is enormous; only one Premier League team could match them.

    The transfer budget that Liverpool will provide its next manager is enormous; only one Premier League team could match them.

    Football Insider has been informed by sources that Liverpool plans to make significant summer window purchases in anticipation of selecting a new director of football and manager.

    The Premier League’s Financial Fair Play regulations and off-field factors including as Jurgen Klopp’s departure are thought to have hindered the Reds’ ability to make significant purchases in January.

    Just 17 permanent moves were completed in the English top division during the mid-season window, with FFP leaving its imprint on most clubs.

    However, Football Insider has been informed by a reliable source that a “big spend” is anticipated as normal in the summer as teams aim to complete their primary business.

    In terms of purchasing power, Man United is expected to challenge Liverpool after the INEOS-backed takeover was revealed last year.

    Although teams like the Reds are likely to be cautious of FFP limitations, a robust summer transfer window is anticipated despite a quiet January.

    Financial wizard Kieran Maguire also revealed to Football Insider on February 6 that Klopp’s successor at Liverpool will have access to a “huge” summer transfer budget.

    Football Insider (January 28) disclosed that the Merseysiders have designated Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso as their top target and are preparing to make a move for him.

    With the addition of Wataru Endo, Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, and Ryan Gravenberch to their roster last summer, the Reds completely revamped their midfield.

    Despite having played one more game than Man City, who are in second place, Klopp’s team leads the Premier League by two points.

    Other news……

    Liverpool has made the initial move to replace Jurgen Klopp as manager by hiring a manager with 83 career victories.

    Liverpool has made the initial move to replace Jurgen Klopp as manager by hiring a manager with 83 career victories.

    Liverpool has made the initial move to replace Jurgen Klopp as manager by hiring a manager with 83 career victories.

    As Liverpool begins to get ready for life without Jürgen Klopp at Anfield, they have now been in touch with Xabi Alonso.

    That’s what Foot Mercato says.

    What’s new with Liverpool and Xabi Alonso, then? Let’s examine this.

    Xabi Alonso is contacted by Liverpool
    Since Klopp made his announcement that he will be departing Liverpool this summer, the 42-year-old has been seen by many as the front-runner to succeed him.

    Foot Mercato reports that the Reds have now been in touch with Alonso.

    According to the French news source, Liverpool is now able to move forward with their plans to sign the Spaniard after the current campaign.

    But according to reports, Alonso is still happy at Bayer Leverkusen, so for now, it’s just an inquiry from Liverpool rather than something more substantial.

    This season, the Tolosa-born tactician has gained recognition in Germany as Bayer Leverkusen has astonishingly yet to drop a game after 30 games.

    With 16 victories and 4 ties in 20 games, Alonso has Bayer Leverkusen leading the Bundesliga. The team is also undefeated in the DFB-Pokal and the UEFA Europa League.

    The former Liverpool player, who played 210 games, has managed 165 games and overseen 83 victories overall. It is an incredible record to say the least.

    Liverpool considers one individual to be a potential replacement for Xabi Alonso.

    Pep Guardiola regards Liverpool's £17 million contender to succeed Jurgen Klopp as highly qualified.

    According to Foot Mercato, Alonso might decide to take over at Real Madrid or Bayern Munich at some point, thus Liverpool would need to find other options.

    Gianluigi Longari of TV Dello Sport claims that Ruben Amorim of Sporting CP is one substitute that “stands out” to the Reds.

    In Lisbon, the Portuguese strategist has performed admirably, leading Sporting to its first Primeira Liga championship since 2002 in 2021.

    As Liverpool looks to appoint Alonso as their top pick, be careful to monitor this development

  • Unveiled: New Premier League regulations will give Liverpool an incredible £415 million transfer boost.

    Unveiled: New Premier League regulations will give Liverpool an incredible £415 million transfer boost.

    If new financial rules are put in place, Liverpool would have no restrictions on how much money they might spend in 2024–2025

    If new financial rules are put in place, Liverpool would have no restrictions on how much money they might spend in 2024–2025 (Football Insider can reveal).

    On Thursday night, all 20 Premier League clubs convened to deliberate over the replacement of the existing Profit and Sustainability regulations.

    The new rules that have been proposed would be in line with the philosophy of Uefa, which limits expenditure to a portion of the club’s total revenue.

    The cap, which will apply to wages, agent fees, and transfer fees, is anticipated to be regulated at 85 percent of income for teams competing outside of Europe and 70 percent for clubs playing in Europe.

    According to the 2024 Deloitte Football Money League, Liverpool’s income for the previous year was £593 million, placing them eighth globally in terms of financial performance.

    Based on their present revenue levels, Liverpool would have an incredible £415 million to spend if the Premier League votes to implement new laws.

    Their £261 million pay cost would eat up most of that money, but the Merseyside club would still have a sizeable transfer budget left over for new players.

    Following Jurgen Klopp’s statement that he will be leaving Anfield at the end of the 2023–24 season, the Reds are actively searching for a new manager.

    Therefore, if new Premier League rules are implemented, the manager selected to succeed Klopp may receive a sizable transfer budget for the 2024–2025 campaign.

    More news…….

    Liverpool has already decided on the future and is refusing to grant the superstar a new contract: report

    Even though one of their talented players' contracts is about to expire, Liverpool does not intend to offer them a new one this summer.

    One of the team’s most gifted players is not willing to have his contract extended by Liverpool.

    Even though one of their talented players’ contracts is about to expire, Liverpool does not intend to offer them a new one this summer.

    The Liverpool leadership now has even more discretion when it comes to selecting individual individuals for the club after Jurgen Klopp’s departure. Even though Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold all have 18 months remaining on their contracts, it appears the Reds have already decided on another standout player.

    Joel Matip, Thiago Alcantara, and Adrian are three Liverpool players whose contracts expire at the end of the current campaign; they are all competing for their futures with the team. On the other hand, someone’s destiny has already been determined.

    Thiago Alcantara’s contract expires in the summer, and Football Insider claims that Liverpool is unwilling to offer him a new term, allowing the 32-year-old to look into alternative possibilities.

    Even though one of their talented players' contracts is about to expire, Liverpool does not intend to offer them a new one this summer.

    The Spanish international has had the chance to negotiate with teams outside of England since January 1, and he only has six months left on his contract. Though Thiago has missed all of 2023–24, save for the final 10 minutes against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, he has been concentrating on healing from a hip injury he suffered at the conclusion of the previous season.

    He did, however, experience a muscle problem during the game that will need additional care. Thiago’s fitness concerns make it seem doubtful that he will sign a new deal with Liverpool.

    Despite a few little setbacks, Thiago signed a four-year, £25 million contract to join the Reds from Bayern Munich in September 2020. Over the previous three seasons, he made 30, 39, and 28 appearances in all competitions.

    Regretfully, the 32-year-old has been written off for 2023–2024, which will probably mean his days at Anfield are numbered. In addition to Thiago, Jurgen Klopp will be departing after rebuilding the team’s midfield last summer.

    Being a player with apparent quality, Thiago will probably have several suitors vying for his signature if he doesn’t receive a new contract offer from Liverpool.

  • FSG makes a move behind the scenes that will impact Liverpool’s efforts to find a replacement for Jurgen Klopp.

    FSG makes a move behind the scenes that will impact Liverpool’s efforts to find a replacement for Jurgen Klopp.

    FSG makes a move behind the scenes that will impact Liverpool's efforts to find a replacement for Jurgen Klopp.

    After leaving FSG thirteen years ago, Theo Epstein has returned, and he will provide advice on important strategic choices.

    The Fenway Sports Group made a big behind-the-scenes change last week.

    The return of Theo Epstein, the former general manager of the Boston Red Sox, to the organisation thrilled supporters of the MLB team, who had been dejected heading into 2024 due to a dismal season in 2023 and a lack of significant signings.

    In Boston, Epstein was well-liked by both supporters and owners. Following the movie “Moneyball’s” depiction of John W. Henry’s failure to sign sabermetrics genius Billy Beane prior to the 2003 season, Henry and FSG set out to locate their own equivalent.

    After FSG purchased the Red Sox in 2002, the team’s 86-year World Series drought was overcome by 2004. Boston would win another World Series before Epstein left in 2011.

    Epstein’s strategy was data-driven, just like Beane’s, and that aligned perfectly with FSG’s goals for the ball club’s development.

    Following his departure from the Red Sox to assume the presidency of the Chicago Cubs, Epstein transitioned into a consulting capacity inside the MLB and then into the private equity space, serving as an advisor to FSG partners Arctos, the company that has just purchased a 12.5% stake in Paris Saint-Germain.

    With the Reds owners offering Epstein shares in the company, they have successfully enticed him back into the fold for FSG. Now that Epstein is a partner of FSG, he owns a portion of every team that is owned by FSG, which includes the Red Sox, the Pittsburgh Penguins, Liverpool, and the RFK Racing NASCAR franchise.

    However, Epstein will only be providing advice part-time, and it’s unclear how long that role would remain. It does, however, coincide with a moment when Liverpool must pick a replacement for Jurgen Klopp at Anfield for the upcoming season, and the Red Sox need some direction in their rebuilding efforts.

    Next season’s successor to Klopp will be standing on the shoulders of giants, and it will be a monumental effort to assume a role that the German manager made his own. In light of Klopp’s accomplishments and the way his success increased FSG’s ownership of the club, this is among the most consequential strategic choices the Liverpool owners have ever made involving all of their sporting endeavours.

    FSG makes a move behind the scenes that will impact Liverpool's efforts to find a replacement for Jurgen Klopp.

    The Athletic revealed last week that one of Epstein’s responsibilities as an advisor will be to assist in the search for Klopp’s replacement.

    According to reliable US sources that ECHO has spoken with, president Mike Gordon will still be significantly involved in the search for a replacement, but Epstein will be a member of the team that searches and offers advice. Gordon got along well with Klopp at work. Mutual respect and trust established the groundwork for success. Prior to his arrival, Klopp also accepted the model, and he was coming off a bad run with Borussia Dortmund. But Liverpool’s analytical hiring process was what made them believe he would be the best candidate and that he could perform well within the parameters of the model.

    Gordon, who returned to Anfield in late 2022 to oversee the club’s investment search, will be familiar with the qualities that Klopp possessed that went beyond statistics, and all of that will be taken into consideration when choosing a replacement.

    Epstein recognises the need of examining data, just like Gordon does. It is in this area of expertise that he is anticipated to contribute to discussions over a Klopp successor and whether the personality is a good fit for the football team.

    During Klopp’s tenure, Liverpool’s worth has increased by approximately £3 billion. While a large portion of this increase can be attributed to the club’s prominence and size during a period of sharply rising broadcast fees, the success that the team has experienced has allowed FSG to use this to enhance business performance through better commercial agreements.

    Moreover, firing managers is an expensive endeavour. Finding someone who is in it for the long run will be the priority once again, something FSG hasn’t had to do since Brendan Rodgers in 2015.

    Considering his experience in Boston, Epstein will be spending the next few months getting to know the people who work behind the scenes in Pittsburgh and Liverpool.

    Sam Kennedy, president and CEO of the Boston Red Sox and partner at FSG, told the Boston Globe during the MLB owners’ meeting this past week in Florida: “When we agreed, it was very clear that this is likely a step, maybe a short-term step, along the way to something bigger and better.”

    We’ll see. He might work with us in the long run, but for now, this is primarily a consulting, part-time advisory position.

    “Just as in the past, we now speak several times a day.

    He isn’t and won’t be physically present in the workplace, nor will he be participating in any daily activities. All I need to do is provide further high-level consulting to the other (FSG) organisations, John Henry, Tom Werner, Mike Gordon, and myself. Over the course of the next few months, he will come to know members of the other organisations.

  • The FSG ‘criteria’ for the next manager of Liverpool indicates that a clear favourite is emerging.

    The FSG ‘criteria’ for the next manager of Liverpool indicates that a clear favourite is emerging.

    Jurgen Klopp, the manager of Liverpool, is making sure his replacement can start winning in the summer, which may facilitate FSG's

    Jurgen Klopp, the manager of Liverpool, is making sure his replacement can start winning in the summer, which may facilitate FSG’s decision-making process.

    Much of Jurgen Klopp’s rule has been unparalleled, from ending the lengthy wait for a Premier League title to becoming global champions for the first time to, as of Wednesday, completing 200 wins as Liverpool manager in record time.

    Even the way the German will now depart Anfield at the end of the current campaign marks a change for the team.

    Since learning of Klopp’s intention to retire back in November, Fenway Sports Group has been in an uncommon and perhaps enviable position in their ongoing search for a replacement.

    Naturally, three managers have departed Liverpool when it was solely owned by FSG. Nonetheless, it might be argued that current circumstance differs from previous ones.

    Think back to past departures. The current owners fired Brendan Rodgers, Kenny Dalglish, and Roy Hodgson. Earlier in the Premier League era, Rafael Benitez, Gerard Houllier, and Roy Evans—who replaced the fired Graeme Souness thirty years ago—were also helped out. Evans was the first Liverpool manager fired since Phil Taylor in 1959.

    A clear succession line had existed between the two sackings. Bob Paisley, Bill Shankly’s assistant, succeeded him, and he then turned things over to Joe Fagan, another bootroom lad. After Fagan left the club after two years, Kenny Dalglish took over as the first and only player-manager of the team.

    More seasoned Reds supporters have compared the astonished astonishment following Klopp’s declaration last week to that which followed Dalglish’s departure in February 1991. But that’s probably where the parallels end. Both had given up on managing Liverpool for very different reasons, but the Reds were in a very different place as a team under Dalglish, still processing the fallout from the Hillsborough tragedy that had occurred less than two years earlier and ill-prepared for the Premier League’s impending transformation. Even though the team was still in contention for awards that season, they had grown accustomed to one another and needed a significant change soon.

    In contrast, Liverpool has strengthened for the future with the influx of players over the last 18 months and the rise of a few Academy graduates. Several of the more experienced players left last summer. Whatever transpires between now and the end of the campaign, the groundwork is in place for the next person to step up and fight for honours right away.

    That’s why it’s similar to Shankly’s bequest to Paisley and Fagan and Dalglish’s subsequent inheritance. Their immediate success—Paisley won the championship and UEFA Cup in his second season, Fagan won a treble in his first, and Dalglish won the double in less than a year—was proof that they took over winning teams.

    However, this time there won’t be a replacement from within, highlighting the unique position that FSG hold at Anfield.

    So what standards ought to be set for Liverpool’s next manager?

    Jurgen Klopp, the manager of Liverpool, is making sure his replacement can start winning in the summer, which may facilitate FSG's

    The success under Klopp would point to a model of someone who has won awards, won a lot of silverware, is willing to stick to a long-term plan, believes the Academy can produce players deserving of a chance to play in the first team, understands the financial model that FSG follows and won’t, at least not in public, question their stance.

    There isn’t a single plausible candidate that fulfils every single need, and the number of candidates who satisfy even four of the five choices is minuscule. However, the foundation that Klopp and his coaching staff have built over the years implies that any adjustments made by the new manager would be limited.

    Of course, there would be certain issues that needed to be resolved, especially if players like Virgil van Dijk, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Mohamed Salah still hadn’t signed new contracts. Furthermore, a new manager will constantly want to leave his mark on a team as quickly as feasible. However, the new manager won’t have to supervise an overhaul for what may be the first time since Dalglish took charge in the summer of 1985.

    Therefore, much experience in the hot seat is not absolutely necessary. And would help to explain why Xabi Alonso, the manager of Bayer Leverkusen, Roberto De Zerbi of Brighton, and Ruben Amorim, the manager of Sporting Lisbon, are among the front-runners. Alonso has a big edge because of his prior ties to Liverpool, in addition to his playing career at Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. He also has a good opportunity of adding trophies to his resume at the end of the season. He would be perfect in so many ways.

    For FSG, Klopp was and still is the ideal manager of Liverpool. It is just not possible to find someone who is comparable, but he has made sure that the next best candidate will have an opportunity to succeed as Anfield’s manager.

  • FSG may eventually acquire Fabinho replacement when Liverpool makes a move for the £35 million enforcer.

    FSG may eventually acquire Fabinho replacement when Liverpool makes a move for the £35 million enforcer.

    In less than a week, the January transfer window will close, and as of this writing, Liverpool has not added even one senior

    This month, the Reds have been mentioned as having an interest in the defensive midfielder.

    In less than a week, the January transfer window will close, and as of this writing, Liverpool has not added even one senior player to their roster.

    After 20 games, the Reds sit two points clear of Manchester City in second place in the Premier League, so it doesn’t seem like Jurgen Klopp needs to add anyone to bolster his team.

    If they defeat Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium later today, they might increase their advantage to five points—even though they have one more game than their opponents.

    Fabinho, James Milner, Jordan Henderson, Naby Keita, and other midfield players were among those who left during the summer transfer window, making Klopp a very busy man.

    Wataru Endo, Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Alexis Mac Allister took their places, although Liverpool hasn’t signed a clear successor to take Fabinho’s spot as a holding midfielder.

    The hunt for a defensive midfield player by Liverpool

    According to a recent rumour from La Gazzetta dello Sport, which TEAMtalk cited, the Reds are among the teams considering a move to sign Atalanta star Ederson

    In less than a week, the January transfer window will close, and as of this writing, Liverpool has not added even one senior

    Newcastle United, a team in the Premier League, was also rumoured as being interested in signing the Brazilian enforcer. However, it is unclear if Newcastle United plans to sign the gifted player this month or during the summer transfer window.

    The source did add, though, that Liverpool’s pursuit of Ederson may be hampered by Juventus’ preparedness to make a major move to recruit Dutch midfielder Teun Koopmeiners at the end of the current campaign.

    The Reds may need to move quickly to finalise a deal for their man before the Old Lady can sign the Netherlands international because Atalanta is reportedly hesitant to cash in on both of their midfield talents.

    It was claimed earlier this month that Ederson is also attracting interest from Manchester United and Barcelona, and that the Italian team would be willing to let him go if they received a bid of around £35 million.

    It is now unclear if Liverpool will wait and try their luck in the summer, or if they are willing to pay £35 million to sign the gifted young player this month.

    If FSG approves a deal for the 24-year-old fighter, they may finally be able to replace Fabinho with Klopp. The right-footed ace is an excellent combative midfielder who can recover possession for his team quickly and move the ball forward.

    The significance of Fabinho to Liverpool

    The Brazil international was a fantastic ball-winner who made contributions both in and out of possession while he played at the base of Liverpool’s midfield.

    Fabinho participated in 28 of the 38 Premier League games during the team’s championship-winning 2019–20 campaign. He stood out with 3.4 tackles and interceptions per game.

    He was one of the finest in his position when it came to stopping rival assaults by getting his foot in to win the ball; in fact, he was in the top 15% of midfielders in the division for tackles (2.68) per 90 that season.

    This indicates that Fabinho was not as good of a defender as the towering behemoth was at the height of his abilities, but he was still a trustworthy player when in possession, giving Klopp an 89% pass success rate in the middle of the field.

    Finally, FSG may be able to bring in his countryman Ederson this month or at the end of the season to replace the Brazilian battler who left last summer.

    The statistics demonstrating why Ederson might take Fabinho’s place

    This season, the Atalanta star has been playing at an elite level for the Italian team, showcasing his skills both in and out of possession as a number six.

    He is a fantastic defensive player for Serie A and possesses the skill with the ball to be an asset for Liverpool on the other side of the pitch.

     

    In his 20 league games for Atalanta, Ederson has averaged 3.9 tackles, interceptions, and 5.6 ball recoveries per game while only being dribbled past 0.5 times per game.

    In the Premier League thus far this season, no Liverpool midfield player has amassed more than 3.2 tackles and interceptions per game.

    The 24-year-old dynamo leads all Serie A midfielders this season in both tackles (2.71) and interceptions (1.46) per 90 possessions, placing him in the top 12% of players.

    According to these stats, he is among the most effective players in the division at regaining possession for his team. Given his propensity to shut down opposition attacks, it is possible that the £35 million-rated player will make a fantastic defensive midfielder for the Reds.

    As you can see from his results in a number of important attacking stats below, Ederson also possesses the ability to influence games at the top end of the pitch for Atalanta.

    Ederson vs midfielders (via FBref)
    23/24 Serie A (per 90) Percentile rank
    Non-penalty goals (0.27) Top 2%
    Shot-creating actions (2.54) Top 40%
    Progressive passes (6.71) Top 8%
    Successful take-ons (0.87) Top 31%
    When it comes to scoring goals and advancing the play from a defensive midfield position, he has performed better than average.

    Ederson is a complete midfielder because he can combine excellent defensive play with noteworthy contributions on the ball. U23 scout Antonio Mango called Ederson “fun” to watch.

    At 24, he still has time and potential to develop. If FSG can sign him, he could become a long-term addition to Liverpool’s team and start as their defensive midfielder for many more years to come, eventually taking Fabinho’s place in the middle of the midfield.