Liverpool goalkeeping coach John Achterberg set to leave Anfield after 15 years
Liverpool goalkeeping coach John Achterberg is reportedly set to leave Anfield after 15 years at the club, according to The Athletic’s James Pearce.
The 52-year-old has been at Liverpool since 2009 and was promoted to his current role in 2011 by then-manager Kenny Dalglish.
However, the Dutchman’s contract expires at the end of this season and he is now expected to depart ahead of Arne Slot’s arrival.
Pearce posted on X (1 May): “John Achterberg will leave [Liverpool] after 15 years of service when his contract expires this summer.
“Massively respected and popular figure who has played a huge part in such a successful era.”
Liverpool have plenty to thank John Achterberg for
After 15 years of service – 13 as the first-team goalkeeping coach – Liverpool have a great deal to thank Achterberg for.
However, arguably his greatest legacy at Anfield was his recommendation of – and subsequent work with – current first-choice goalkeeper Alisson.
Following the failed signing of Loris Karius, the Reds went in search of a new shot-stopper and Achterberg identified the Brazilian – then playing in Serie A for Roma – as the ideal candidate.
Alisson has gone on to establish himself as one of the world’s best goalkeepers since joining Liverpool and instantly elevated the side’s quality, helping the club win the Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup and FIFA Club World Cup in his six seasons at Anfield.
The 31-year-old would likely not have ended up at Liverpool had it not been for Achterberg, and the Dutch goalkeeping coach also deserves a share of the credit for the Brazilian’s subsequent success and strong performances.
The excellent displays of second-choice shot-stopper Caoimhin Kelleher are further evidence of the quality of goalkeeping coaching on offer at Anfield.
The loss of Achterberg will surely be a significant one – and Slot will not find it easy to recruit a replacement of similar quality.
In other Liverpool news, Alan Shearer has slammed the Reds’ “rotten” first half against West Ham after being “battered” at Everton.
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