Wayne Rooney doubts Arne Slot’s suitability for Liverpool, citing lack of ‘aura’
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Wayne Rooney Doubts Arne Slot’s Suitability for Liverpool, Citing Lack of ‘Aura’
Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has expressed skepticism about Arne Slot's long-term fit as Liverpool manager, warning that the Dutch tactician lacks the commanding "aura" needed to succeed at Anfield in the post-Klopp era[1][2][3]. In recent comments, Rooney highlighted Liverpool's struggles this season, attributing them partly to a major squad rebuild and Slot's inability to inspire the same fear or respect as his predecessor.
Rooney pointed to significant changes over the summer of 2025, including the departures of key players like Trent Alexander-Arnold (now at Real Madrid), Luis Diaz, and the tragic loss of Diogo Jota. Veterans Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk have underperformed, while Andy Robertson has been sidelined by injuries. "Look at Liverpool from last season to now. I think Salah and Van Dijk haven’t been at their best. You’ve got Trent missing. Robertson hasn’t played a lot of games, Luis Diaz [left], the Jota situation," Rooney noted[4].
Adding to the mix, Rooney surprisingly defended Darwin Nunez, who left Anfield last year after falling out of favor. Despite the Uruguayan's inconsistency—capable of spectacular goals but prone to glaring misses—Rooney argued he "brought something" to the team that has been missed, especially in a campaign where Liverpool's attack has looked blunt at times. Nunez lost his starting spot under Slot late last season, and with new signings like Hugo Ekitike and interest in Alexander Isak, his exit seemed inevitable. Yet, Rooney suggested his chaotic energy could have provided a vital spark from the bench[4].
Overall, Rooney views Liverpool's dip as a combination of personnel losses and an ongoing rebuild, but he questions whether Slot possesses the intangible presence to steady the ship long-term. Some fans may quietly agree with his "cold warning," as Slot faces pressure to restore Liverpool's dominance[2][3]. While hindsight makes Nunez's value clearer now, last summer's decisions felt logical at the time[4].
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