Arne Slot opens up about Liverpool sacking in heartfelt letter to fans
Arne Slot has shared a heartfelt goodbye message to Liverpool fans just two days after being let go by the Premier League club following a tough season.
On Saturday, Liverpool made the decision to part ways with Slot, who led the Reds to their 20th league title during his first season in charge. After taking over from Jurgen Klopp in summer 2024, the Dutch coach was praised for how quickly he settled in, winning 17 of his first 19 games.
Liverpool finished the 2024-25 season 10 points clear of second-place Arsenal, and things looked promising, especially after the club spent around £446 million on seven new players. But many of those signings struggled to make an impact, and Slot faced criticism for some of his decisions. After ending the season in fifth place, the 47-year-old was dismissed as head coach.
Now, after some time to reflect, Slot has opened up in an emotional letter to Liverpool supporters, which was shared on the Liverpool Echo’s website. He started by talking about the mix of feelings you get walking out under the famous Anfield tunnel sign.
He spoke about the responsibility he felt to honour Liverpool’s long and proud history, the natural expectations to keep that legacy alive, and his determination to bring success to the fans who are known worldwide.
Winning the Premier League title so soon was “beyond special” to him—a reward for the hard work by many people at the club. It was even more meaningful because the fans got to celebrate it with the team, singing and cheering together, lining the streets, and filling the stadium.
He also reflected on the difficult moments, like the tragic events on Water Street after the celebrations and the sad loss of player Diogo shortly after. Slot shared how moved he was by the compassion and unity shown by the Liverpool family during those hard times.
More than anything, he wanted to honour Diogo’s memory as a teammate, friend, and amazing person who meant a lot to the club and fans. The support shown by everyone left a lasting impression on Slot as he said goodbye.
Slot said the connection with Liverpool is about more than football. From the very start, he felt welcomed by the club and its people, something he will always treasure.
He thanked the players who wore the badge with pride, the staff both on and off the pitch, the club’s leadership for their trust, and the legends who helped him understand the true meaning of The Liverpool Way. He said it was a pleasure working with them all.
Liverpool’s 20th league title belongs to everyone connected to the club and will always be a proud moment. Slot acknowledged that the club measures itself by the biggest trophies and hopes Liverpool continues aiming high.
He leaves confident in the future—the strong team and emerging young players have built something solid that will last. Though change is part of football, he believes the club will keep making its fans proud.
Slot finished by saying that when he first walked under that famous Anfield sign, he knew Liverpool’s high demands—and now, as he leaves, he knows the team never stopped trying to meet them.
Shortly after the news, Liverpool released a joint statement with the club’s owners. They confirmed Slot’s departure and said they are already working on finding a new head coach.
They called it a tough decision but thanked Slot for his significant and successful contributions, especially winning the Premier League title in his first season. They praised his strong work ethic and leadership and highlighted the compassion he showed during tough times, like after Diogo’s passing.
The club said the decision to change direction was carefully made, not because of a lack of talent or respect for Slot, but because they believe a new approach is needed to move forward.
Liverpool expressed their gratitude, saying Slot will always have a special place in the club’s history. They wished him the best for the future and said he and his family will always be welcome at Anfield.