Liverpool Fans Decide: Would Winning the FA Cup Save Arne Slot from the Sack?

Liverpool FC faces mounting pressure in the 2025/26 season, with manager Arne Slot's future hanging in the balance despite his triumphant Premier League title win last year[1][3]. Currently 14 points behind leaders Arsenal after 21 games, the Reds sit fourth following a gritty 0-0 draw at the Emirates, but a horrific autumn run of nine losses in 12 matches fueled sack calls[1][3].

Speculation intensified ahead of tonight's FA Cup third-round clash against League One's Barnsley (17th place) at Anfield. A shock defeat could prove fatal for Slot, as the Cup represents Liverpool's last realistic trophy shot after their Carabao Cup exit[1]. Fans and pundits debate: would lifting the FA Cup suffice to secure his job, or is Premier League failure unforgivable?[2]

Trusted journalist James Pearce emphatically dismissed immediate sack rumors, noting Slot's position is safe for now, backed by FSG's appreciation of his tactics and stability[3]. Yet, sources reveal a season-end review and a shortlist of successors like Oliver Glasner and Andoni Iraola, should results sour[3]. A Spanish report claiming an imminent axe was rubbished, with Liverpool's 10-game unbeaten streak (including five draws) offering respite[3].

Injuries compound woes: Conor Bradley is out for the season with bone and ligament damage from a Martinelli clash, leaving Jeremie Frimpong as Slot's sole fit right-back[4]. Conor Bradley's absence robs Northern Ireland of a World Cup playoff star, while Calvin Ramsay eyes a breakthrough[4].

Slot rotates squad amid injuries, giving fringes a chance, but the FA Cup's stakes loom large. Winning it might rebuild fan confidence for a two-legged semi-final and Wembley return, buying time amid transfer splurges (£440m) yet to gel[2][3]. Liverpool aren't a "sacking club," but Barnsley upset could change that[2]. Fans polls on sites like Rousing the Kop gauge sentiment: many say Cup glory isn't enough without top-four finish[1][2].

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