As the winds of change sweep through Anfield, Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard gears up for a reunion with one of the loyal lieutenants of Jurgen Klopp.
Liverpool’s goalkeeping coach, John Achterberg, is packing his bags for a new adventure as he prepares to bid farewell to the Merseyside club. He will tam up with Gerrard at Al-Ettifaq in the Saudi Pro League.
Achterberg, 52, has been an integral part of Liverpool’s backroom staff for the past 15 years, bringing with him a wealth of expertise and experience.
Initially joining the club’s academy under Rafa Benitez in 2009, the former Tranmere keeper transitioned into a senior role two years later and has since become a popular figure at Anfield.
In his time with the club, Achterberg spotted current No. 1 goalkeeper Alisson Becker’s talent before Liverpool’s record-breaking £67 million swoop from Roma in 2018.
During his tenure, Achterberg played a crucial role in identifying Alisson Becker as a potential target before the Brazilian goalkeeper’s £67 million transfer from Roma in 2018.
Gerrard Snatches A Staff Of Klopp
Acknowledging Klopp’s impact on his career, Achterberg said:
“After 15 years at the club, I have decided with a heavy heart to leave LFC.
It has been an unbelievable and great journey for me and my family.
I have loved each day working at this amazing club, but after a long think I feel it could be right for me to start a new challenge.
It has been a privilege to work for the biggest and greatest club in world football with its amazing supporters.
John Achterberg After Liverpool Won The Carabao Cup
Whether they are Scouse or non-Scouse, I loved them all worldwide. A massive thank you goes to our manager Jurgen Klopp.
What joy he gives to all of us. Klopp has fulfilled all our dreams at LFC.
He is one of (the) best managers in the history of the city, the club and world football.
He created world-class teams with his man-management skills, he brought us back to being believers, winners, and a force in European and world football.
For me personally, I cannot thank him enough for everything he has done for me and my family, for the trust he gave me to do my job to the best I can, the joy, inspiration and the great leadership.”
For Gerrard, the opportunity to work alongside Achterberg represents a reunion with a familiar face from his time at Liverpool.
Having witnessed Achterberg’s work firsthand during his playing days, Gerrard is likely to value the Dutchman’s experience and insight as he continues to carve out his own path in management.
Passionate about the beautiful game and dedicated to Liverpool FC, where "You'll Never Walk Alone" is not just a slogan, but a way of life. I live and breathe football, from the roar of the Anfield crowd to the tactical intricacies of the sport.
My expertise lies in dissecting the transfer market, tracking player movements, and uncovering the hidden gems destined for greatness. Whether it's discussing potential signings, analyzing match strategies, or celebrating the brilliance of players, I'm always ready for a football conversation.
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