The Swedish coaching legend Sven-Göran Eriksson returns to the coaching bench for a day – as coach of Liverpool FC.
On Saturday (March 23, 2024), the already atmospheric stadium at Anfield Road in Liverpool could become particularly emotional. Because for Sven-Göran Eriksson it could be the last football game on the sidelines. The former England coach is terminally ill with cancer. With his participation in the legendary game of Liverpool FC, a heartfelt wish has come true for the 76-year-old.
Liverpool coach Jürgen Klopp invited Liverpool fan Eriksson after the Swede made it public in January that he was suffering from pancreatic cancer. In the best case scenario, he might have another year to live, said Eriksson. He had previously resigned from his position as sports director at Swedish club IF Karlstad for health reasons.
“Always been a Liverpool fan”
During his almost 50-year coaching career, the former defender had coached numerous clubs, including Benfica Lisbon, AS and Lazio Rome and Manchester City, as well as the national teams of England, Mexico, the Philippines and Ivory Coast.
But his favorite club wasn’t there. “I’ve always been a Liverpool fan,” Eriksson told Sky News. “That’s why I always wanted to coach Liverpool, but that definitely won’t happen now.” It didn’t take long before Liverpool coach Klopp got in touch and extended his invitation. “You can have my office, you can run a unit, no problem.” Just standing on the sidelines “could be a little more difficult,” said Klopp, referring to his Reds’ important remaining competitive games.
Play with numerous club legends
Klopp, who will leave the club in the summer, is still playing for the championship and the Europa League with his team. But on Saturday it’s all about fun and a good cause. The income is intended to benefit local institutions that are primarily committed to education and social issues. 54,000 tickets for the game against a legendary team from Ajax Amsterdam have been sold so far.
Sven-Göran Eriksson will oversee a notable selection of former Liverpool stars at Anfield, including Jerzy Dudek, Sami Hyypia, Dirk Kuyt and Fernando Torres. In his homeland he is considered a legend and the greatest football coach in the country’s history. A few weeks ago he was honored at the Swedish sports gala Idrottsgalan and received a long standing ovation.
Eriksson, who last coached the Philippines national team in 2019, is dominated by anticipation. “First and foremost, of course, I feel incredibly honored,” enthused the 76-year-old in an interview with the official Swedish Liverpool fan club. “But most of all I feel it will be wonderful and exciting. I can’t wait to lead the team in ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’.”