Steven Gerrard shares his thoughts on Liverpool’s choice to let Arne Slot go
Steven Gerrard has shared his thoughts on Liverpool’s decision to let Arne Slot go. Slot was sacked on Saturday after a tough Premier League season, where Liverpool finished fifth, just a year after winning the title.
After a busy summer signing many new players, people expected Liverpool to be strong both in England and Europe. But Slot’s team lost 20 games in all competitions, leading the club’s owners, Fenway Sports Group, to make a change after reviewing the season.
Right now, Andoni Iraola is the favorite to take over at Anfield. Journalist Fabrizio Romano says Liverpool won’t be looking at other managers, and it’s only a matter of time before Iraola, who used to be at Bournemouth, is named.
Earlier this season, Gerrard, a Liverpool legend, showed support for the team during talks that he might step in as temporary manager until the end of the season.
Talking about Slot’s exit on TNT Sports, Gerrard said it was a hard but right choice to part ways with the Dutch coach.
“I’m not surprised. I feel sorry for Arne Slot because he did an amazing job in his first year,” Gerrard said. “Taking over from the great Jürgen Klopp was a big challenge, and he handled it well.
“Winning the Premier League is very hard. I know that better than most, so what he achieved in his first year shouldn’t be forgotten. He’ll be remembered in Liverpool’s history. But from the last 10 games last season and most of this season, the team hasn’t really played like Liverpool.
“The style was hard to watch sometimes. It seemed off and broken. When I heard the news today, I was surprised and shocked at first, but thinking it over, I believe now is the right time.”
On Iraola possibly becoming the new manager, Gerrard said:
“We all know how these decisions happen, and I’d be surprised if they suddenly decided who to pick without a plan. Liverpool is a well-run club, everything is carefully done. I think the timing is good because the new manager will have the off-season to prepare and bring in new players.
“That’s the best time to start fresh and move the team forward. I’m sure the club’s leaders had a plan for this. Iraola did great at Bournemouth, and his style could fit Liverpool. But Liverpool is a top club that many top managers want to lead, so he won’t be the only option.
“Since some folks at Liverpool have links to Bournemouth, they know him well. Still, there are other strong candidates. The Liverpool job is one of the biggest in football.
“So to answer your question, yes, I think Iraola should definitely be part of the talks.”