The Dutch FA has released a major update that strengthens Liverpool’s plans with Arne Slot.
Following uncertainty regarding the timing of Sipke Hulshoff, Arne Slot’s assistant, joining Liverpool, there is now clarity thanks to an update from the Dutch FA.
Slot is set to be officially introduced as Liverpool’s new head coach after the season concludes, and he will bring at least three members of his Feyenoord staff with him. Assistant coach Hulshoff, head of performance Ruben Peeters, and technical advisor Etienne Reijnen are all slated to join following compensation agreements with Feyenoord.
However, as Hulshoff also holds a position in the Netherlands national team staff, there was ambiguity regarding his availability for the start of pre-season. Given the Netherlands’ participation in this summer’s European Championship from June 14 to July 14, there was concern that Liverpool might be without a crucial member of their revamped coaching team.
Fortunately, the Dutch FA has confirmed that Hulshoff has stepped down from his role as Ronald Koeman’s assistant, making way for Dwight Lodeweges to take over. This development clears the path for the 49-year-old, who has a history of collaboration with Slot at SC Cambuur and Feyenoord, to join Liverpool immediately after the season concludes.
Hulshoff’s role is akin to that of departing Liverpool assistant manager Pepijn Lijnders, as he closely collaborates with Slot, overseeing and often leading training sessions. Liverpool and Netherlands captain, speaking to vi.nl, expressed his positive impressions of Hulshoff, praising his clarity, tactical acumen, and leadership during training sessions. He emphasized the promising start to their collaboration, indicating optimism for the future.