Liverpool have appointed Alejandro Rosalen as their new goalkeeping coach, recruiting the 49-year-old Spaniard from Napoli following his departure from the Serie A champions last month. Rosalen replaces Xavi Valero in the backroom staff at Anfield.
The appointment brings extensive Italian football experience to Merseyside. Rosalen spent the past four years at Napoli, where he contributed to two Serie A title triumphs working under Luciano Spalletti and Antonio Conte. His tenure in Naples also saw him collaborate with Walter Mazzarri, Rudi Garcia and Francesco Calzona during a successful period for the Partenopei.
Fiorentina pedigree
Prior to his time in Naples, Rosalen enjoyed an eight-year spell at Fiorentina between 2013 and 2021. During his long stay in Tuscany, he served under multiple head coaches including Vincenzo Montella, Paulo Sousa, Stefano Pioli, Giuseppe Iachini and Cesare Prandelli. This extensive period established him as one of Serie A’s most seasoned goalkeeping specialists, working with various playing squads and tactical systems throughout his time at the Artemio Franchi.
Allegri arrival prompts exit
The coach’s exit from Napoli came after the club appointed Max Allegri as their new head coach last month. Allegri’s arrival prompted a complete reshuffle of the backroom staff, with the incoming manager bringing in his own personnel to replace predecessor Antonio Conte’s team. This managerial transition left Rosalen available to join Liverpool without a breach of contract.
Early career and new chapter
Rosalen began his coaching journey in the Valencia academy, developing his methods within the Spanish system before broadening his experience with a season at Hungarian side Videoton. His move to Liverpool represents his first appointment in English football and follows a decade of continuous employment in Italy’s top flight.
The recruitment continues Liverpool’s restructuring of their coaching department ahead of the new campaign. Rosalen will be tasked with working alongside the club’s goalkeepers, bringing the methods that delivered silverware in Naples to the Premier League. The addition provides continuity for the goalkeeping unit during a period of transition, with his track record of developing shot-stoppers at elite clubs offering immediate credibility to the role.