When Liverpool overhauled their coaching setup after Jurgen Klopp’s emotional exit, few expected one of his trusted lieutenants to quietly make waves elsewhere in Europe.
Yet that’s exactly what Vitor Matos, the club’s former elite development coach, is doing in Portugal — and his story is one Liverpool fans will love.
Matos, who worked closely with Klopp and Pep Lijnders between 2019 and 2024, took his first managerial role this summer at CS Marítimo.
The historic club from Madeira had slipped into the Portuguese second division and were in desperate need of a rebuild. Now, under Matos, they’ve climbed to third place — and fans are starting to dream of a return to the top flight.
It’s been a journey filled with emotion and purpose. Matos’ first day as head coach came with heartbreak, as he learned about the tragic death of his close friend and former Liverpool striker Diogo Jota just minutes before his first training session.
The pain still lingers, but in Madeira, he’s found a sense of direction — and perhaps healing — through his football project.
Vitor Matos: “An opportunity to build something special”
Since taking over, Matos has reintroduced intensity and structure reminiscent of Klopp’s Liverpool.
Marítimo now boast one of the best defensive records in Liga Portugal 2 and rank among the most aggressive pressing sides in the league — allowing the fewest passes before winning the ball back.
If that sounds familiar to Reds fans, it should. The “Gegenpress” spirit is alive and kicking on the island.
Matos has built a side that fights for every ball and plays with fearless energy. “I want to create a feeling where every supporter is excited about the next game,” he told The Athletic.
“One of the biggest parts of the job is managing 25 different characters and personalities, but I’m ready for that. I don’t see it as pressure to deliver. It’s an opportunity to build something special.”
His football philosophy is clear — high press, fast transitions, and total commitment. Or as one Marítimo fan joked online, “We’re starting to look like Liverpool in green.”
Vitor Matos: “Liverpool was more than a dream”
For Matos, this managerial rise is deeply rooted in what he learned at Anfield. He once described his time at Liverpool as a “masterclass,” crediting Klopp’s influence for shaping his coaching style and mindset.
“Being at Liverpool was more than a dream because I never thought it would even be possible,” he said. “The city breathes the club and the club breathes the city.”
He still recalls the Premier League title, the empty-stadium celebrations at Formby Hall, and even Alisson’s iconic header against West Brom.
For Matos, those memories are the foundation of how he now inspires players — by turning belief into performance, even in the toughest moments.
Now 37, Matos isn’t promising miracles — only hard work, unity, and a clear football identity. Marítimo’s loyal fans already feel connected again, and if promotion comes, it’ll be the ultimate proof that one of Liverpool’s own is building something truly special in Portugal.