In the 5th round of the Champions League group stage, Liverpool 1-4 PSV Eindhoven at Anfield.PSV delivered an impressive performance, but for Liverpool, it’s imperative to address the team’s current issues. The Reds’ recent form has been truly alarming, far below expectations. It was another terrible night, with the result, on-field display, and post-match reaction all far from satisfactory. This is an extremely complex moment for Liverpool.
The message coming from the club and within Liverpool is positive—they continue to support Arne Slot.
Today is Thursday, and Slot held a pre-match press conference for the game against West Ham ahead of schedule. This is unusual, as press conferences are typically held on Fridays—a long-established routine in the Premier League. However, Liverpool decided to make Friday a rest day—giving the manager, coaching staff, and players a day off in the hope of alleviating some pressure. Hence, Slot attended the press conference today.
After the defeat to PSV, Slot also stated: “I’m not worried, not about my position. I know I have to do better.” Slot continues to engage in self-reflection and criticism, always honest and never making excuses. This is worth mentioning, as Slot rarely shies away from accountability—he is always extremely candid, sometimes even brutally so.
At the same time, Liverpool’s stance is clear: there are no plans to sack the manager immediately.
After the match, some fans—especially those on social media—may have expected an immediate response from the club’s hierarchy, given the 1-4 home loss to PSV in the Champions League and 9 defeats in the last 12 games. Such expectations are understandable, but Liverpool’s position remains unchanged: they will not sack the manager now.
In other words, Slot still has the opportunity to turn around the current unfavorable situation. Of course, this cannot continue indefinitely—results must improve soon, otherwise unexpected developments may occur. Liverpool cannot offer unconditional support forever. But for now, they continue to back the manager and reaffirm their trust in Slot.
Many clubs around the world—not just in England—would have already replaced their manager in such circumstances: 9 defeats in 12 games, especially the performances against Nottingham Forest and PSV at home. But Liverpool has chosen to stand by their coach. He is a Premier League title-winning manager, claiming the trophy in his first season in England; he has a good relationship with the players; and we must not forget the series of events Liverpool went through last summer. These are all reasons for their continued support. However, results must change—this cannot go on. The next few games will be crucial. This is Liverpool’s current stance.
