Arne Slot Says Blaming Former Liverpool Coach Would Be Unfair

Arne Slot, Liverpool's head coach, has strongly defended sacked coach Aaron Briggs, calling it "very unfair" to blame him for the team's set-piece struggles despite recent criticism[1]. Slot hit back at detractors following Briggs' departure, emphasizing that pinning defensive woes solely on the outgoing coach overlooks broader team challenges.

Liverpool finds itself at a crossroads in the 2026 Premier League season, with Slot under mounting pressure amid dismal form, individual errors, insufficient squad depth, and controversial officiating[2]. A recent match against Manchester City exemplified these issues: City's Marc Guéhi avoided a red card for a challenge on Mohamed Salah, while Liverpool's Dominik Szoboszlai was dismissed for fouling Erling Haaland. Though mitigating factors like injuries and new player integration exist, Slot bears partial responsibility for failing to sustain dominance[2].

Criticism of Slot has turned personal and unfair, according to Anfield sources, with a BBC investigation naming him a top target of online abuse alongside Ruben Amorim[2]. Fans and media have labeled Liverpool's style "dull and boring," too slow and laborious, even accounting for injuries—though Slot acknowledges the need for improvement[3]. Pundit Neil Mellor echoed this, completely disagreeing with one key criticism as totally unfair amid rising pressure on the Dutchman[4].

Despite a Champions League humbling by PSV and no shots on goal in a heavy Arsenal defeat, Slot retains hierarchy support from sporting director Richard Hughes and CEO Billy Hogan[2][3]. An in-house roundtable featuring Slot signals public endorsement from owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG), who avoid rash decisions. As the title race with Manchester City intensifies, Slot's title-winning credentials are tested, but calls for a coaching merry-go-round persist[2].

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