The concern behind the scenes at Anfield is growing.
Liverpool management continues to publicly support Arne Slot, but at the same time, tough internal discussions about the Dutchman’s future are expected in the coming weeks.
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The season has been one long strain for Liverpool. They have failed to defend their Premier League title with flying colours, and are even at risk of slipping out of the top five. With no trophies and seemingly no clear identity, the pressure has been heavy on Slot almost all the way.
Although most have thought that Slot would be allowed to continue into the next season, disappointing results and poor performances in recent weeks may still lead to a reassessment. The media noise around whether the Slot is suitable to lead a dishwashing session only adds to the concern.
One incident in particular has worried the club’s American owners in Boston: Mohamed Salah’s recent outburst about Liverpool’s direction and performance.
Gary Neville called the move a grenade. Since then, his post has been liked by a total of 17 Liverpool players – both past and present.
Mohamed Salah’s words have triggered powerful internal soul-searching. Key people at the club understand why the Egyptian vented his frustration after a very disappointing season. Fenway Sports Group is increasingly concerned – not only about the results, but also about the overall mood around the squad and the project before the summer.
Although FSG does not micromanage the football part, football managers Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes are constantly working to assess the situation and discuss different scenarios.
Liverpool’s title defence has completely unravelled this season. The pressure on Slot is increasing in the wake of a trophy-less season.
The loss figures have become a major internal concern. With 19 defeats across all competitions this season, the club have already reached their shared highest total of the 2000s – and they could equal an unwanted modern record if they also lose the final game of the season.
Only once since Liverpool returned to the top flight in 1962 has the club lost 20 games in a single season – a record that dates back to the dismal 1992/93 season.
Although Liverpool have publicly said that a comprehensive review will only come after the end of the season. TEAMtalk writes that the concern in the club has grown sharply in recent weeks.
Arne Slot firing talk explodes – as Gerrard reacts to Salah’s “doomsday message” about Liverpool’s problems
The fact that Liverpool eventually missed out on Xabi Alonso – who has now signed for Chelsea – has only increased frustration among supporters and created further questions about the club’s long-term planning.
TEAMtalk insider Graeme Bailey now reveals what is happening in the corridors of power at Anfield:
“Edwards and Hughes have a lot of heavy thoughts and conversations ahead of them,” Bailey explains.
“The situation around Slot is escalating rapidly. I can say that not everyone internally supports that he should simply be allowed to stay.
“Liverpool is not a club that acts emotionally or impulsively, but the owners are fully aware that this is becoming a very serious situation.
“I hear that Salah’s move hit really hard. Internally, there is actually a great understanding of what he said – people in the club understand why the frustration overflowed.
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Next Liverpool manager: Four names in discussion
Although Alonso is not available, there are several alternative manager names still being discussed behind the scenes – should Liverpool eventually decide to make the switch.
“Sebastian Hoeness is highly respected for the job he has done in Stuttgart
“Julian Nagelsmann is still admired, and Matthias Jaissle is another coach Liverpool have looked at – especially because his tactical approach has gained increased recognition.
“But one name is repeated: Andoni Iraola.
“He’s potentially available, he plays an aggressive and high-intensity style that fits Liverpool’s football philosophy, and – perhaps most importantly – he already knows the Premier League.
“People must also not underestimate the Richard Hughes factor. Hughes was instrumental in bringing Iraola to Bournemouth, and the respect between them is still great.
For now, Liverpool insist that Slot is the manager – and no final decisions have been made.
The post-season evaluation at Anfield looks set to be one of the most important internal assessments the club has made in many years. The pressure around Slot is increasing as summer approaches.
It is not only in the boardroom that Slot has lost ground. Several commentators have given the thumbs down – and Jermaine Pennant’s statements have been particularly harsh.
Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher, on the other hand, disagree, with the former explaining why Slot deserves to continue.
Nevertheless, the media speculates about a change of coach. James Pearce is among those who suggest that the project under Slot is about to fail – and that the cries to sack the Dutchman are only getting louder.
