Who will manage Liverpool next?

While just last week, the future seemed nothing but promising, Jurgen Klopp's decision to leave at the end of the season has resulted in a lot of doubt.

While FSG president Mike Gordon and Liverpool CEO Billy Hogan moved to allay any fears for the future of Liverpool FC, it's difficult not to worry.

The main question that now needs answering is over who will manage the club next.

Who will replace Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool manager?

Klopp has just four months left at Anfield and they will fly by. Especially if his side continues their rampage in all four competitions.

While the German ensures he can leave on a high note, the club is working furiously behind the scenes to replace their greatest manager in a long time.

Xabi Alonso

Xabi Alonso has long since been linked with replacing Klopp at some point in the future. It was just never apparent that it could happen so soon. The Spaniard has been impressive with his high pressing Bayer Leverkusen side.

The currently sit atop the Bundesliga table with two points more than Bayern Munich.

Xabi Alonso is currently the firm favourite to become the new Liverpool manager in the summer and would be welcomed with open arms by supporters after his special career at Anfield.

The Spaniard won the Champions League and the FA Cup with the Reds in 2005 before his move Real Madrid in 2009 and is now an exciting young coach.

Still only 42, Alonso has plenty of time to develop into an elite coach and join the club at a later stage even if he doesn't join now.

That being said, it's quite possible it happens especially with Tim Steidten, the favourite to replace Jorg Schmadtke as sporting director, appointed Xabi Alonso as Bayer Leverkusen head coach.

It's an interesting link and comes via This is Anfield.

Roberto De Zerbi

The Brighton head coach has developed a reputation for his expansive style of play but also for how he has managed to develop some of the young players under his tutelage.

Much like Alonso, however, neither have extensive experience as title-winning managers given their ages although Alonso may well win the Bundesliga before the end of the season.

The Seagulls are once again having a very decent season as they sit in 8th place but are 11 points adrift of the top four.

De Zerbi would be a fascinating but risky choice to replace Klopp but with better players at his disposal and Premier League experience as a manager, he's certainly not a bad option.