Journalist explains Liverpool’s position on dismissing Arne Slot during the season

Arne Slot is not expected to be dismissed as Liverpool head coach before the season concludes, although doubts remain over his long-term future at Anfield. That is the view of journalist David Lynch, who has been assessing the 47-year-old’s position following another disappointing result, a 1-1 home draw against Burnley on Saturday.
The frustration around the club has been evident, with fan footage showing Slot involved in a tense touchline exchange with Curtis Jones. Former winger Jermaine Pennant has also suggested that Real Madrid’s recent decision to sack Xabi Alonso has only intensified the scrutiny on the Dutchman.
Liverpool reluctant to sack Slot mid-season
Speaking on Anfield Index, Lynch explained that Liverpool are extremely hesitant to make a managerial change during the campaign. However, a summer decision remains a realistic possibility if performances and results fail to improve.
“They very clearly want to reach the end of the season with Slot if possible,” Lynch said. “A mid-season change creates the issue of who takes charge as interim, and ideally any managerial switch would happen in the summer.
“His situation already feels fairly defined. The decline has been obvious and prolonged. It’s really about getting to the summer now, unless things completely collapse again with six or seven straight defeats, which might force their hand. They genuinely don’t want to make a change right now.
“The idea of bringing in someone like Xabi Alonso is being discussed, but he wouldn’t want to step into a role mid-season. That would leave you relying on an interim, and there aren’t many strong options available.”
Despite seeing clubs like Manchester United and Chelsea act decisively with managerial changes this month, Liverpool are unlikely to do the same unless results worsen dramatically and the mood at Anfield becomes toxic.
FSG are known for their measured approach, and trusting an interim manager to deliver Champions League qualification would represent a major risk, even if the current situation is far from ideal.
Should Slot be dismissed later in the year, Alonso would appear an obvious candidate due to his ties to the club and current availability. However, as Lynch notes, the former midfielder may be reluctant to return immediately to such a high-pressure role.
From our perspective, Slot deserves the rest of the season to push for a top-four finish and secure Champions League football for 2026/27. Achieving that would provide a stable foundation heading into next season.
Failing to do so, though, could leave FSG with little choice but to intervene. It’s fair to say that the coming months will be decisive for both Slot and Liverpool Football Club.