Ex-Liverpool Star Says Arne Slot Now Under 'Added Pressure' After Brutal Firing

Liverpool FC manager Arne Slot faces mounting scrutiny in the 2025-26 season, with former Reds star Jermaine Pennant claiming the Dutch coach is under "added pressure" following Real Madrid's shock sacking of Xabi Alonso.[4][1] Pennant, a ex-Liverpool right-back, highlighted how Alonso's availability intensifies the spotlight on Slot, whose position has grown precarious amid a turbulent campaign.[4]

Slot took over from Jurgen Klopp with high expectations but encountered early woes. By late November 2025, Liverpool slumped to nine losses in 12 games across competitions, dropping to 13th in the Premier League. Club legend Jamie Carragher warned Slot had "mere days" to turn things around, dividing fans who once embraced the Feyenoord boss.[2] Tensions peaked with Mohamed Salah, who felt "thrown under the bus" before apologizing and departing for the Africa Cup of Nations. Yet, Salah's return finds Slot's backing solidified from players, fans, and management.[2]

Recent signs offer cautious optimism. Slot candidly critiqued a 2-0 lead squandered in a match, admitting insufficient chances despite possession and lacking "complete performances."[1] Key issues persist: injuries to Conor Bradley force positional shifts for Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones; fitness concerns for Mac Allister, Van de Ven (likely a squad reference), and Cody Gakpo; and a strained dynamic with Salah.[1] Slot laments absent urgency, poor set pieces, and no clear tactical evolution, as opponents deploy low blocks to neutralize his press.[1]

In his first 2026 press conference, Slot revealed frustrations over creativity deficits, attacking stagnation, and over-reliance on a core group, echoing last season's squad management flaws.[3] With the title slipping away, upcoming fixtures like Fulham test defensive resolve amid injuries to players like Ibrahima Konaté.[3] Pennant insists Slot has "a problem," urging tactical fixes and squad refreshment to restore coherence.[4]

Despite struggles, Slot's composure shines through, positioning Liverpool for a potential FA Cup and Champions League push. As "You'll Never Walk Alone" echoes, the Reds eye a brighter 2026 horizon—but pressure mounts.[2]

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