Embracing Full Support from Owners and Fans
Slot Expresses Confidence in Support from Management and Fans
Ongoing Challenges for Liverpool’s Coach
Liverpool’s manager Arne Slot has shared his belief that he has the full backing of both the club’s ownership and its supporters, despite the team’s recent struggles on the pitch and escalating concerns about his position at Anfield.
Slot, who took over from Jurgen Klopp in June 2024, had a successful initial season, clinching the Premier League title. However, he now finds himself in a tough spot, with Liverpool currently sitting fifth in the league, just seven points clear from 13th place.
In their most recent outings, Slot’s team has managed to accumulate only one point from the last three league matches, including a recent 2-1 defeat against Brighton. Additionally, the club faced a heavy 4-0 defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-finals and suffered a disappointing 16th loss of the season in the first-leg of the Champions League quarter-finals against Paris Saint-Germain.
Following the 2-0 loss in Paris, during which Liverpool only had 26% possession and managed three shots compared to PSG’s 18, former defender Stephen Warnock remarked on BBC Sport that it appears the team’s confidence is at its lowest ebb. Meanwhile, French football expert Julien Laurens expressed doubts over Slot’s future as head coach.
Despite the setbacks, Slot, who is under contract until the conclusion of the 2026-27 season, remains unconcerned about his job security and commended the fans for their unwavering support, even during challenging times.
Acknowledging Support from All Corners
“I find myself repeating this, but I genuinely feel a significant amount of support, not only from the ownership but also from Richard [Hughes] and Michael [Edwards]. Strangely, the fans have also been incredibly supportive,” Slot stated.
He reflected on the atmosphere during the warm-up before the match in Paris and following the 4-0 loss to Manchester City, noting that fans began to sing “we love Liverpool” as a show of solidarity.
“It’s evident we were outplayed for the entirety of the match, yet the fans continued to sing and cheer for us,” he mentioned. “The club is aware of the phase we are in, and I feel complete support in this period.”
Slot emphasized that the recent defeat to PSG would inspire the team during what he believes to be a crucial juncture in the season, particularly with Fulham set to visit Anfield next.
“We faced the European champions and recognized that our performance did not match the standard required. The positive aspect is that we have a few days to prove we can be much more competitive. This experience motivates us to strive for improvements for next season,” he concluded.
Farewell to a Club Legend
In addition to his own challenges, Slot paid tribute to departing defender Andy Robertson, who announced he would leave the club at the end of the season when his contract expires.
He praised the Scottish player for his intensity and extensive tenure with Liverpool, while acknowledging that Robertson’s limited playing time has influenced his decision to depart.
Having made 373 appearances for Liverpool and winning nine trophies including two Premier League titles and the Champions League, Robertson has made significant contributions during his time at the club. However, he has only participated in 19 league matches this season, with six of those being starts, after losing his starting position to Milos Kerkez.
“Robertson has had many excellent seasons here, not just as an athlete but also as an individual. His teammates would vouch for his humor and character,” Slot remarked. “What stands out to me is the intensity with which he plays. I recall showing a clip of Robbo’s pressing from the left-back to right-wing position to my players previously.”
“He has won everything this club has to offer and truly loves this club. It has been a fantastic nine years for him, and although he has not featured as much this season, it is understandable that he is moving on.”