Liverpool has been restructuring its staff since Jurgen Klopp’s exit in 2024.
Many of Klopp’s longtime associates left alongside him, prompting Arne Slot to assemble his own team.
This process has faced challenges, with more staff changes occurring since the Dutchman’s arrival.
The recruitment department has seen new appointments, starting with Richard Hughes as the sporting director. This rebuild has not been quick or straightforward.
Laurens Paulussen joins Liverpool as new Belgium-Netherlands scout
Photo by Vincent Kalut/Photonews via Getty Images
Over the last decade, Liverpool has gained a reputation for effective talent scouting, successfully identifying players for both the first team and the academy.
This success relies on having the right personnel in place. On Friday, Mechelen announced via X that former left-back Laurens Paulussen has been hired by Liverpool to boost their scouting efforts in Belgium and the Netherlands.
The Belgian club’s post stated: “The final transfer of the winter transfer window is confirmed.”
“Scout and former player Laurens Paulussen is joining Liverpool Football Club. Laurens will work for Liverpool FC as a scout in Belgium and the Netherlands.”
“The club is proud and wishes Laurens all the best.”
Who Is Laurens Paulussen?
While a new scout hire may not attract immediate attention, it’s important to note when someone with playing experience takes on such a role.
At 35, Paulussen is relatively young and recently retired from professional football.
He played as a left-back for Mechelen from 2014 to 2018 after transferring from Westerlo. Although he didn’t achieve international recognition, it was understandable given Belgium’s talent pool during his time.
Liverpool has already shown interest in the Dutch market in recent seasons. If they begin to explore Belgium more, Paulussen will likely be instrumental in that effort.