Arne Slot Insists He Will Remain Liverpool Manager Next Season Despite Difficult Campaign

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has publicly dismissed speculation over his future at the club, stating he has “every reason to believe” he will remain in charge heading into next season.

Speaking ahead of the club’s final away fixture of the season against Aston Villa, Slot addressed questions about his position directly. “First of all, I am contracted to this club, and second of all, from all the talks we are having, that is my take on it,” he said. “I don’t think I am deciding that alone by myself, but I have every reason to believe I am the Liverpool manager next season.”

The Dutch coach has come under increasing pressure during a campaign that has fallen well short of the standards set last season, when Liverpool claimed the Premier League title. This term, the Reds have been unable to mount a serious challenge for the league and are still not guaranteed a Champions League place, with a top-five finish now their realistic target.

Slot acknowledged the team’s underperformance without deflecting responsibility. “Definitely not a great season,” he conceded, while noting that scrutiny is an expected consequence of a title-winning club failing to defend its form. “If you don’t have the best season… it is also normal that criticism comes,” he added. “We have all had our share, and with ‘all’ I mean the players have had their share, the manager has had their share, and other people in the club have had their share. That is how things work nowadays if you don’t win the league.”

Slot was appointed Liverpool manager in the summer of 2024 following the departure of Jürgen Klopp, who ended a nine-year tenure at Anfield. The former Feyenoord boss guided the club to the Premier League title in his debut season — a remarkable achievement for a first-year manager at one of England’s most scrutinised clubs. However, replicating that level of performance in his second year has proven considerably more difficult.

The situation draws comparisons to the tenure of Brendan Rodgers, who also experienced a sharp dip in form following an exceptional campaign. Reports earlier in the season indicated that Slot had equalled Rodgers’ record for losses in a single Premier League season, underlining the scale of the drop-off.

With the season drawing to a close, Liverpool’s final league placing will carry significant financial and footballing implications — particularly regarding European competition next season. Securing Champions League qualification would provide a stronger platform for any squad rebuild during the summer transfer window.

Whether or not Slot remains in his role beyond this season, the club faces important decisions over its playing squad and broader footballing direction. His comments suggest that, at least from his perspective, those conversations are already taking place with continuity in mind.