How Richard Hughes is assessing Arne Slot’s situation as Liverpool head coach
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Richard Hughes is expected to be involved in any discussions about Arne Slot’s future, as Liverpool consider whether a change is needed this summer.The Dutchman had a strong start, winning the league in his first season, but the following campaign did not go to plan.After nine defeats in 12 games across all competitions, many fans were calling for his departure.There was even talk of an interim manager coming in before the end of the season, though that now seems unlikely.Arne Slot’s position under review as Liverpool continue to strugglePhoto by Catherine Steenkeste/Getty ImagesWith Xabi Alonso still linked to the job and Liverpool struggling to find form, questions around Slot have not gone away.The Reds look set to miss out on Champions League football, currently sitting sixth in the Premier League table heading into the weekend.Up next is West Ham United, and it feels like the Dutch manager needs more than just a win, he needs a performance that convinces those above him that things are moving in the right direction.Speaking to FlashScore, Dean Jones said: “Slot understands that sporting director Richard Hughes is leading a comprehensive analysis of the overall situation, weighing up team development, progression and performance data alongside the results.”It is noted that momentum matters just as much as results right now. A strong showing against West Ham would mean more than just another three points.For now, though, Liverpool’s hierarchy are still considering whether Slot is the right choice for their long-term plans.What it would take to dismiss Arne SlotIf Liverpool end up finishing outside the Champions League spots this season, Jamie Carragher believes Slot could lose his job.Right now, they are three points back from Manchester United and behind Chelsea only on goal difference.Even fifth place, which might be enough for Champions League qualification, would still be a disappointing follow-up to last season’s title win.With questions swirling around the manager’s future, finance expert Adam Williams spoke earlier this season about what sacking Slot would cost.He told Rousing the Kop: “The conventional wisdom is that, in order to sack a manager, you have to pay out the remainder of their contract.
On that basis, you’d be looking at £15m or thereabouts to give Slot the boot. There will likely be provisions in his contract that protect the club if, for example, if they are drastically underperforming on the pitch.
There might also be a pre-agreed termination clause. These factors can work in the manager’s favour or the club’s – there’s no way of knowing for sure without having the contract in front of us.”Join Our NewsletterReceive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox