Liverpool and Arne Slot go separate ways as a new top candidate for the job comes forward
Liverpool and head coach Arne Slot have agreed to part ways immediately.
Arne led Liverpool to a Premier League title in his first season, but the 2025/26 campaign was tougher. The team finished fifth and was knocked out in the Champions League quarter-finals by Paris Saint-Germain. Fans have also voiced their unhappiness with the team’s style of play, with some hoping for a return to the ‘heavy metal’ football under former manager Jürgen Klopp.
On May 30, well-known Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano shared on X: “ARNE SLOT AND LIVERPOOL TO PART WAYS WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT. It’s over between the Dutch manager and Liverpool after an end-of-season review.”
He also mentioned that Andoni Iraola, the former Bournemouth coach who helped them qualify for the Europa League last season, is the favorite to take over, despite interest from Crystal Palace, AC Milan, and Bayer Leverkusen.
This news comes just weeks after Slot said he believed he would stay on as Liverpool manager next season. When asked about his future, he said, “I don’t think I decide that alone. I have every reason to believe I am the Liverpool manager next season. I am contracted to this club, and from all the talks we are having…” He also mentioned being involved in plans and discussions for the 2026/27 season.
After the announcement, Liverpool and their owners released a joint statement:
“Liverpool FC confirms Arne Slot is leaving his role as head coach immediately, and the search for his replacement is underway. This was a tough decision for the club. Arne’s contribution to Liverpool has been significant and successful, which we deeply appreciate.
“We saw from the start that Arne not only accepted responsibility but embraced it. He guided us to the Premier League title and managed many challenges this past season.
“However, we believe it’s time for a change to keep moving forward. This decision wasn’t made lightly.
“We want to thank Arne, who will always be remembered as the coach who brought Liverpool’s 20th league title — a huge achievement, especially in his first season.
“He also showed great care and humanity during the difficult time after losing Diogo, which said a lot about him as a person.
“We wish Arne all the best in the next phase of his coaching career and expect he will continue to succeed. His Liverpool legacy is secure and will grow more meaningful over time.
“This change reflects the need for a new approach, not a reflection on Arne’s skills or hard work.
“Arne leaves with our gratitude, a Premier League title, and the knowledge he and his family will always be welcome at Anfield.”