For some, the transition from playing to coaching is a natural progression. A prime example is Arne Slot, who first made his mark as a player for
For some, the transition from playing to coaching is a natural progression. A prime example is Arne Slot, who first made his mark as a player for PEC Zwolle, NAC Breda, and Sparta Rotterdam before becoming a head coach.
This pathway is also being followed by Jota, Adrian, and Matip, who are currently working towards their coaching badges under UEFA. On Wednesday, the PFA announced that all three had successfully obtained their UEFA B Licence, the third-highest level of coaching qualification.
Jota and Matip have been pursuing their badges for over a year, evidenced by their coaching sessions at The Robbie Fowler Academy at the AXA Training Centre last June. Fabinho was part of this group as well, while Jota and Adrian were later seen coaching at the Steven Gerrard Academy in November.
Additionally, James McConnell, goalkeeper Reece Trueman, and striker Iwan Roberts (who has since left the club) all achieved their UEFA B Licence in 2023.
Although earning these qualifications does not necessarily mean these players are planning immediate coaching careers, Adrian’s achievement is noteworthy. The Spanish goalkeeper has been offered a new one-year contract by Liverpool this summer. With significant changes expected among the goalkeeping staff following the departures of John Achterberg and Jack Robinson, Adrian’s new qualification could play a role in the club’s future plans.
Meanwhile, Jurgen Klopp has hinted that Joel Matip might retire when his current contract at Anfield expires, though this remains unconfirmed.
Of the senior trio, Jota appears the least likely to dive into coaching right away. The Portuguese forward has expressed reservations about becoming a manager, stating last year, “At this stage, I feel I will never be a first-team manager. I could be an assistant, for example, but you never know. If I have this opportunity to do the qualification, I think I will learn something while doing it, and in the end, I get the UEFA B badge and can go from there.”
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