Liverpool risk falling into Man Utd trap if they turn to former star to replace Arne Slot

Liverpool are under increasing pressure midway through the 2025/26 Premier League season, sitting fourth after a goalless draw against Arsenal.[3] Manager Arne Slot faces scrutiny as injuries mount, notably Conor Bradley's devastating season-ending knee injury, leaving the Reds short at right-back with only Jeremie Frimpong available.[3][5]

Slot praised young Scot Calvin Ramsay's composure in a prior League Cup defeat to Crystal Palace, but the squad's depth is tested.[3] The draw at the Emirates fueled tensions, with Gary Neville criticizing Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli for a challenge on Liverpool's right-back, calling it "fuming" behavior.[3]

Xabi Alonso, former Liverpool star and recently available manager, has intensified speculation about Slot's future.[2] Fans' reservations about replacing Slot have reportedly diminished, opening the door to changes.[1] Media outlets have identified four potential Slot successors, amid reports of growing "pressure" on the Dutch coach.[2][4]

Warning Against a Manchester United-Style Mistake

The article cautions Liverpool against hastily sacking Slot for a nostalgic "former star" like Alonso, drawing parallels to Manchester United's pitfalls. United's pursuit of iconic ex-players has led to inconsistent results and managerial merry-go-rounds, rather than building on current foundations.[1][2]

Former Liverpool figures argue Slot deserves more time, especially with injuries like Bradley's disrupting plans—Slot prefers keeping Dominik Szoboszlai in midfield over shifting him to defense.[5] Rushing to Alonso risks repeating United's trap of glamour hires over strategic continuity.

Path Forward

Liverpool must bolster the right-back position amid transfer rumors, but stability under Slot could yet turn their season. Fans and pundits urge patience to avoid United's chaos, prioritizing youth development and squad resilience over knee-jerk reactions.[3][4]

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