Liverpool considered Ernesto Valverde as 'leading contender' for manager job

Ernesto Valverde was Liverpool's 'leading contender' for the manager job, reports James Pearce.

The Spaniard 'would've fitted the 'brave' criteria laid out by Richard Hughes and Michael Edwards', he adds.

Arne Slot, however, ended up becoming the Reds' first choice based on the analytical review – even ahead of Ruben Amorim who was hotly-tipped to succeed Jurgen Klopp at the time.

Ernesto Valverde won four trophies in three years with Barcelona but failed to claim the Champions League – it was him to suffer the humiliating 4-0 defeat against Liverpool in 2019. At the same time, he has done a good job with lower-level sides, winning the Copa del Rey with Athletic Club this season.