Arne Slot Told Two Liverpool Stars Have a 'Very Slim' Chance of Improving After Stark Drop in Form

By Eoin Morris | Sunday, January 18, 2026

Arne Slot has been candidly informed that two key Liverpool stars face a 'very slim' chance of regaining their previous levels following a sharp decline in their performances this season. The revelation comes amid Liverpool's frustrating 1-1 draw against relegation-threatened Burnley at Anfield, marking their latest failure to secure a win against newly promoted sides at home.[1][3]

The Dutch manager, under increasing pressure after Liverpool's slip to fourth in the Premier League table—just one point above Manchester United—has highlighted concerns over specific players' development. Slot named three players whose progress is being hindered by the team's inconsistent form, but sources close to the club have pinpointed two stars whose form has dropped starkly, with experts deeming improvement unlikely.[2][3]

Despite dominating possession with 73% and registering a season-high 2.95 expected goals (xG) from 32 shots, Liverpool could only manage a draw. Slot acknowledged the fans' boos post-match, stating he "completely understands" their frustration, as the Reds have now dropped points from winning positions three times this season.[3]

The two unnamed stars, once pivotal under previous regimes, have struggled to adapt to Slot's high-pressing system. Insiders report that after detailed assessments, Slot was told their age, injury history, and tactical mismatches mean revival is improbable. This echoes broader squad concerns, with reports of players being let go and others like Gannon-Doak sidelined until 2026.[1][5]

Slot reflected on the team's evolution: from losing high-chance games earlier in the season to now controlling counters better, yet still failing to convert dominance into victories. With the title race tightening and fans growing restless, decisions on these underperformers loom large—potentially signaling exits in the summer window.[3][4]

This stark assessment underscores Liverpool's fall from grace, as even star talents choose to abandon the club amid Slot's rebuild challenges.[1][4]