Decision comes after a season review ended with the conclusion that a change was necessary
Liverpool have sacked Arne Slot less than 16 months after appointing him as Jurgen Klopp’s successor.
The decision was confirmed on Saturday after an end-of-season review, with Liverpool stating that Slot had left the club with immediate effect despite delivering the club’s record-equalling 20th league title in his first season in charge.
Former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is understood to be among the leading contenders to replace him at Anfield.
Liverpool’s owners described the decision as a reluctant one, praising Slot’s achievements but insisting a change was required to reverse the team’s trajectory. In a statement, they said they had “collectively come to the conclusion that change is necessary in order for the club to keep moving forward”.
The dismissal follows a season in which Liverpool struggled to build on the momentum of their title-winning campaign. The club finished fifth after collecting their lowest points total for a decade and suffering 19 defeats in all competitions. Liverpool’s hierarchy continued to back Slot throughout the difficult campaign, including a run of nine defeats in 12 matches last autumn, but concerns grew over the team’s overall direction.
Arne helped us deliver our 20th title and we’ll always be thankful ❤️ pic.twitter.com/0rpzDPQ4U6
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) May 30, 2026
Slot’s tactical approach came under increasing scrutiny as results deteriorated. Liverpool’s style of play was criticised by supporters and observers as lacking the intensity and attacking edge associated with the Klopp era.
The pressure on the head coach intensified in the closing weeks of the season. Supporters booed the team during a 1-1 draw with Chelsea, and comments from Mohamed Salah on social media questioning Slot’s tactics received public backing from several teammates and ex-Liverpool players.
Liverpool ended the season with another 1-1 draw against Brentford and there were no speeches from players or staff despite presentations recognising Salah and Andy Robertson.
Liverpool acknowledged the challenges Slot faced during the campaign, including injuries to key players and the aftermath of Diogo Jota’s death last summer.
The club paid tribute to the Dutchman’s handling of that period, praising the “compassion and humanity” he showed while helping guide Liverpool through one of the most difficult moments in its recent history.
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) May 30, 2026
Slot arrived from Feyenoord in May 2024 on a three-year contract and quickly exceeded expectations by leading Liverpool to the Premier League title in his debut season.
His success appeared to justify the club’s decision to entrust him with the task of following Klopp, but a sharp decline in results this season ultimately proved decisive.
Liverpool insisted the decision “does not diminish the work Arne has done here, or the respect we have for him. Nor is it a reflection of his talents. Rather, it is indicative of the need for a different approach.”
