Liverpool owners must decide Slot's future after title defense struggles in 2026

Liverpool's owners face a critical decision on whether to keep Arne Slot after a sharp decline following their 2025 Premier League title win.

Owners weigh Slot's future Fenway Sports Group, Liverpool's ownership group, faces a familiar challenge as the club experiences a steep drop in form just one year after claiming the Premier League crown. Arne Slot, the head coach who delivered the title in his debut season, has seen fan confidence evaporate amid a string of underwhelming results. Leadership figures like principal owner John W Henry and chairman Tom Werner must now determine whether to retain Slot or pursue a new direction. This dilemma mirrors a past decision in 2015 when Brendan Rodgers, despite nearly securing the title in 2014, faced similar backlash after a poor campaign. ## Rodgers' past struggles recalled Brendan Rodgers endured a similar crisis of confidence from supporters in 2015, despite having built a squad capable of challenging for major honors. After a humiliating 6-1 defeat at Stoke City left Liverpool sixth in the table, 25 points behind champions Chelsea, Rodgers was nearly dismissed. Ownership ultimately chose to back him, though with a restructured backroom team. Their decision to retain him came despite heavy investment in players like Christian Benteke for £32.5m and Roberto Firmino for £29m, while selling Raheem Sterling to Manchester City for £49m. The strategy failed, and Rodgers was sacked in October, paving the way for Jurgen Klopp's transformative tenure that brought Champions League and Premier League glory. ## Fan unrest reaches boiling point Discontent among Liverpool supporters has reached unprecedented levels, with chants of disapproval echoing through Anfield during matches. A recent 1-1 draw against Chelsea played out under a hostile atmosphere, signaling deep frustration with the team's performances. Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy suggests Slot's departure is now inevitable, emphasizing that fan revolts at elite clubs are rarely reversed without immediate success. Murphy, who previously interviewed for a role under Rodgers, notes that winning titles brings credit, but losing fan trust can be irreparable unless results and style meet expectations. ## Xabi Alonso emerges as alternative Xabi Alonso, a revered figure from his playing days at Anfield, has become the leading candidate to replace Slot if ownership opts for change. Alonso's success as manager of Bayer Leverkusen, including a Bundesliga triumph, has elevated his profile, though his brief and troubled spell at Real Madrid raises minor concerns about his man-management. Murphy argues that Alonso's understanding of Liverpool's demands and his familiarity with key players like Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong make him a compelling option. Alonso is also a target for Chelsea, but Murphy believes Liverpool should consider a bigger move by pursuing Paris St-Germain's Luis Enrique, a two-time Champions League-winning coach. ## Slot's challenges under scrutiny Murphy concedes that Slot is a strong tactician and likable figure, but the reality of Liverpool's fanbase is unforgiving, with no recent examples of managers regaining full support after losing it. Slot's difficulties have been compounded by significant squad turnover, including the departures of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Luis Diaz, as well as Mohamed Salah's form decline. The tragic loss of Diogo Jota has added emotional weight to the team's struggles, with new signings failing to adapt to the intense pressure of wearing the Liverpool shirt. Players like Hugo Ekitike have shown glimpses, while others like Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz have underperformed, further eroding confidence. ## Ownership's high-stakes gamble Owners must decide whether to double down on Slot, despite the growing revolt, or cut ties to reset expectations. Murphy warns that backing Slot risks falling behind rivals if the coach cannot quickly restore fan belief, as Liverpool's supporters are known for their relentless demands and influence. He argues that a new manager could provide an immediate boost in morale, even if Alonso or another candidate carries some risk. The ultimate question is whether Slot can replicate his first-season surge, where Liverpool dominated nearly every game and played with the swagger expected by the Kop. ## Murphy's verdict on Slot's fate Murphy believes Slot's time is likely over, not because of personal shortcomings but due to the unrelenting nature of Liverpool's fanbase. He states, 'I think Slot's time is probably up. The main reason for saying this is not a dislike of him. I think he's a good guy and a very bright coach, but the reality is Liverpool's fanbase is as powerful as any out there.' The former midfielder adds that regaining fan trust would require a near-flawless run of results and a return to the high-intensity, attacking style expected at Anfield. Murphy concludes that a departure, whether now or later, is inevitable given the current climate.