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Nicky Hayen is among the candidates being considered for the vacant Celtic managerial position, but the individual who brought him to British soccer reckons the Belgian possesses the credentials to eventually replace Arne Slot at Liverpool.
Club Brugge manager Hayen, 45, features on the list of potential successors to ex-Reds boss Brendan Rodgers at Parkhead following the Northern Irishman's resignation. Hayen has made his mark in Belgium since assuming control of Brugge's youth setup in 2022.
He stepped up to the first team in 2024 following Ronny Deila's exit and guided them to the Champions League last 16 last season, while orchestrating a comprehensive 9-1 aggregate thrashing of Rangers in qualification for this year's competition.
Prior to his return to Belgium, Hayen enjoyed a stint with Welsh outfit Haverfordwest County. Chairman Rob Edwards was responsible for his appointment and has been singing the Belgian's praises in a conversation with Sport.
"I believe Nicky Hayen will replace Arne Slot as Liverpool manager within two years," Edwards declared.
He praised the "workaholic" Hayen while speaking enthusiastically about his contributions during his solitary campaign in Wales.
"You could see it from the impact he had on the players," Edwards explained.
"He dedicated his time to getting to know the players. He was very methodical. He asked about their well-being; he was also concerned about the mental aspect of the game.
"He was very calm. He wasn't one of those who shouted in the dressing room; he spoke and listened. Despite not being the loudest or most aggressive, he had a special aura. He's a family man, he doesn't drink, he doesn't use social media. He simply focuses on his work."
Hayen's name is amongst several being linked with the Celtic position. Martin O'Neill and Shaun Maloney have assumed temporary control following Rodgers' exit, though a permanent successor is anticipated imminently.
Craig Bellamy, who turned out for both Celtic and Liverpool as a player, features amongst the other candidates being discussed. Kieran McKenna, Robbie Keane and Kjetil Knutsen have similarly been suggested, whilst a comeback for former Hoops manager Ange Postecoglou now seems improbable.
At Anfield, Slot's position remains secure despite a challenging opening to the campaign. Liverpool endured four consecutive league defeats, intensifying pressure on both squad and manager, before defeating Aston Villa on Saturday to climb back into the top four.
The Reds then beat Real Madrid 1-0 at Anfield in the Champions League on Tuesday.
"I think everyone who was here today felt the importance of the game, the players and fans as well," Slot remarked following the 2-0 triumph over Unai Emery's team. "We showed character and won the game."
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