'I Won’t Be Sacked': Arne Slot Backs Liverpool Future Even If Champions League Qualification Is Missed
Arne Slot has stated he does not expect to lose his role as Liverpool head coach if the club fails to secure Champions League football, although he acknowledged that missing out would be “unacceptable.” The Dutch coach suggested that the club’s leadership will consider the bigger picture of what has been a deeply challenging season. He referenced the patience previously shown to Jurgen Klopp as an example that could work in his favour.
Arne Slot believes Liverpool will keep faith in him even if they fail to qualify for the Champions League, citing difficult season circumstances, injuries, and club long-term planning.
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Slot addressed rumours surrounding his future at Anfield and stressed that failing to reach Europe’s top competition should not automatically result in his departure. Liverpool are currently under pressure in the Premier League standings, sitting four points behind Chelsea and five behind Manchester United in the push for a top-five spot ahead of an important away match against Sunderland on Wednesday night.
After heavy spending in last summer’s transfer window, not qualifying would be viewed as a major setback. Despite this, Slot believes Fenway Sports Group and sporting director Richard Hughes will assess the season from a broader perspective. He highlighted the 2022-23 campaign under Klopp, when Liverpool finished outside the top four but still backed their manager — a decision that ultimately contributed to the club winning their 20th league title two seasons later under Slot himself.
When asked directly if his job was at risk, Slot admitted the decision is not his to make. He pointed out that recent history showed a manager could survive a disappointing finish, although he acknowledged that it offers no guarantees. He also explained that, particularly at Liverpool, evaluations go beyond results and also include player development, team improvement, and the wider circumstances surrounding a season.
This campaign started in tragic fashion following the death of forward Diogo Jota last July, which deeply affected the squad. On the field, injuries have also caused major problems, most notably a broken leg suffered by striker Alexander Isak, which weakened Liverpool’s attacking options and reduced rotation possibilities. At the same time, key players including Mohamed Salah, Alexis Mac Allister, and Cody Gakpo have struggled for form, while many new signings have needed time to adapt. As a result, Liverpool have won only six of their last 20 league matches. Slot described this as easily the toughest season of his coaching career but believes he is at a club that values long-term progress rather than reacting impulsively.
Liverpool’s difficulties have been further highlighted by the performances of former players. The £65.5 million sale of Luis Diaz to Bayern Munich last July has drawn criticism, particularly as Diaz has produced 18 goals and 14 assists in Germany while Liverpool have struggled to score during Isak’s absence. Slot defended the decision, explaining it reflects the club’s sustainability-driven model, which he believes makes Liverpool different from many top Premier League teams. He suggested the debate might have been different if Isak had stayed fit.
Slot’s immediate focus is preparing for a difficult trip to Sunderland, who remain unbeaten at home this season. Liverpool currently have only around 22 players available, stretching squad depth. Dominik Szoboszlai is suspended after his red card against Manchester City, while Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong are also unavailable. With Joe Gomez only just returning to training, Slot is expected to consider Wataru Endo or Curtis Jones in defence, while Calvin Ramsay is not yet seen as ready for first-team action. Liverpool need victory to keep pace with Chelsea and Manchester United, but injuries and poor attacking form continue to make Slot’s job increasingly difficult.
