Liverpool's Stance on Firing Arne Slot After Burnley Draw as Xabi Alonso Theories Emerge

Arne Slot's position at Liverpool FC is under intense scrutiny following a frustrating 1-1 draw against relegation-threatened Burnley at Anfield, sparking fan outrage and speculation about his potential dismissal.[2][4]

The match saw Liverpool dominate with 32 shots (11 on target), including a first-half goal from Florian Wirtz, but they failed to capitalize on chances, allowing Burnley to equalize via Marcus Edwards on their first shot. Dominik Szoboszlai missed a penalty, and fans booed the team off the pitch, chanting criticisms like "He needs to go, enough is enough" and decrying the uninspiring style of play. This marks the first time since 1980/81 that Liverpool couldn't beat a newly promoted side at home, extending an unbeaten run to 12 games but consisting mostly of draws.[2][4][5]

Slot acknowledged the frustration, stating, "If we draw against Burnley at home, there’s something fundamentally wrong. I completely relate to that."[4][5] Despite stabilizing after a poor run of nine losses in 12 matches last season, four straight draws have jeopardized Champions League qualification. Reports claim Slot is "on thin ice," with club chiefs speeding up replacement plans despite his prior success in winning the Premier League title.[1]

Xabi Alonso, recently sacked by Real Madrid, tops Liverpool's priority list as a modern tactician with club history. Insiders report discussions underway, and an X post alleges Slot was told even Champions League qualification won't save him without tactical improvement since March 2025. Former Red Jermaine Pennant predicts pressure mounts, giving Slot until season's end. While some like James Pearce say the board backs him amid £400m+ summer spending and underperformance, fan discontent and Alonso's availability fuel sack theories. Liverpool sit fourth domestically but ninth in Champions League.[1][3]

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