Liverpool have announced the departure of head coach Arne Slot after two seasons in charge at Anfield.
The Dutchman leaves the club despite guiding the Reds to the Premier League title in the 2024/25 season, becoming one of the few managers to win the English top-flight crown in their debut campaign.
Slot joined an elite group that includes José Mourinho, Carlo Ancelotti, Manuel Pellegrini and Antonio Conte, all of whom won the Premier League title in their first season in England.
Title Glory Followed By Decline
The 47-year-old led Liverpool to their 20th league title during a remarkable first season at the club.
However, the Reds endured a disappointing 2025/26 campaign, finishing fifth in the Premier League despite securing qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League.
Liverpool ended the season with 60 points, their lowest tally since the 2015/16 campaign and a massive 25 points behind Arsenal.
The downturn in form ultimately convinced the club’s hierarchy to make a managerial change ahead of the new season.
Iraola Emerges As Leading Candidate
Former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has emerged as the frontrunner to replace Slot.
Reports indicate that Liverpool have already approached the Spaniard to discuss the vacant position following his recent departure from Bournemouth.
The club are expected to move quickly in appointing a successor as preparations begin for the 2026/27 season.
Liverpool Pay Tribute To Slot
In a statement, Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group paid tribute to Slot’s achievements and professionalism during his time at the club.
“That this was a difficult decision for us to make as a club goes without saying. The contribution Arne has made to Liverpool in the time that he has been with us has been significant, meaningful and, most importantly of all to supporters and ourselves, successful,” the statement read.
“As such, our appreciation for everything he has achieved could not be greater, particularly as it was underpinned by a work ethic, diligence and a level of expertise which further underlined our view that he is a leader in his field.
“From the moment that we first encountered Arne, it was immediately clear that he is an individual who does not merely accept responsibility; he embraces it.”
Slot departs Anfield having delivered Liverpool’s second Premier League title and their 20th English league championship overall, ensuring his tenure will be remembered despite an underwhelming final season.
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