14 September 2023 , 12:36
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Danny Murphy has identified Roberto De Zerbi as the "perfect" Jurgen Klopp replacement if the Liverpool boss does become the next Germany manager.
Klopp has been linked with the vacant Germany role following Hansi Flick's dismissal earlier this week. Die Mannschaft decided to make a change after they were beaten 4-1 by Japan in a friendly.
Ahead of next summer's European Championships in Germany, Klopp could be in contention to replace Flick, with Julian Nagelsmann, Oliver Glasner and Rudi Voller also potential candidates.
Should Klopp leave Anfield, Liverpool will be in search of a new manager for the first time in eight years. But ex-Reds midfielder Murphy believes De Zerbi would be a perfect fit for the job, having guided Brighton to the Europa League after finishing sixth in the Premier League last term.
"I've got the answer, so I'm not worried about (Klopp leaving)," Murphy said on talkSPORT. "I think De Zerbi is perfect. He'll be ready then (to take over).
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"I think he plays great football, he looks a strong character, he's learning his trade in this league with Brighton and doing it superbly well. I don't see a better candidate.
"Things change in football really quickly. So, the flavour of the month might be someone else this time next year. But I think he's (De Zerbi) the real deal.
"There is something about him. After meeting him as well, (I can say) he's got real gravitas. A real presence. And I love the way his teams play. But I can't see Klopp going for some time yet. He's got this new influx of players, and he seems enthused by Liverpool's start (to the season) and the promising start of some of the new signings."
Danny Murphy has identified Roberto De Zerbi as his "perfect" Jurgen Klopp replacement (Getty Images)De Zerbi replaced Graham Potter at Brighton in September 2022 and has since turned the Seagulls into a European-chasing side. They picked up impressive scalps over Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United last season while drawing against Manchester City and Newcastle at home.
The Italian helped Brighton finish sixth in the end, which earned them a spot in Europe for the first time. They ended with their highest-ever points tally (62) and have begun this season as they mean to go on, winning three of their opening four top-flight matches ahead of this weekend's trip to Man Utd.
As for Klopp, he only signed a new Liverpool contract last year until the summer of 2026, but remained coy when asked about the possibility of taking over his national side in July. He said: "The job of national coach is and would be a great honour - there's no question about that.
"The problem that stands in the way of the whole thing is my loyalty. I can't just leave Liverpool now and say I'll take over Germany for a short time. That doesn't work and the request isn't even there. If I'm supposed to do that at some point, then I have to be available and I'm not currently. I have a responsibility towards the club.
"Basically, it's an interesting job. But I don't know yet whether I'll do something completely different after I leave Liverpool. I want to keep my options open."