Key Liverpool Reason for Not Hiring Ruben Amorim Vindicated as Arne Slot Strengthens Position - Opinion

Liverpool's decision to appoint Arne Slot over Ruben Amorim in 2024 has been fully justified by recent developments. While Amorim struggled at Manchester United, Slot led Liverpool to the Premier League title in his debut season, solidifying his position amid ongoing debates about managerial scrutiny[1].

The article highlights a pivotal "key reason" Liverpool cited for bypassing Amorim: concerns over his tactical adaptability to the Premier League's intensity and his limited experience outside Portugal. This foresight proved prescient as Amorim endured a dismal 2024/25 campaign at Old Trafford, finishing 15th—the club's worst league position in 35 years—and suffering a turgid Europa League final loss to 17th-placed Tottenham Hotspur. Only now, 12 months in, is United showing gradual improvement with a five-match unbeaten run[1].

In stark contrast, Slot delivered instant success at Anfield, clinching the title with four games to spare despite a recent dip. Critics like Rio Ferdinand argued Slot receives an "easy ride" from media, comparing his last 30 games (14 wins, 13 losses, 3 draws post-PSG Champions League defeat in March) to Amorim's balanced 10-10-10 record. Ferdinand's podcast claimed Slot faces less pressure than Amorim did during similar slumps[1][2][3].

However, Liverpool journalist James Pearce dismissed this as "brainless," emphasizing Slot's title triumph versus Amorim's failures. Slot's recent woes—wretched results over two months—are contextualized by his overarching achievements, including key contributions from midfielders and defenders like Virgil van Dijk[1].

The piece vindicates Liverpool's choice, crediting Slot's consistency in selection, battle-hardened squad motivation, and superior big-game record. As United stabilizes under Amorim, Slot's position strengthens, with praise for Arsenal loanees and tactical depth underscoring why Anfield bosses never regretted snubbing the Sporting CP coach. Liverpool's hierarchy emerges wiser, prioritizing proven Premier League nous over hype[1][2].

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