Arne Slot has thanked Liverpool supporters for a connection that “goes beyond football” after being sacked by the club on Saturday. The Dutch coach, who led Liverpool to the Premier League title in his debut season, was dismissed 13 months later following a dramatic decline in his second year. In an open letter published in the Liverpool Echo, Slot insisted the club is “exactly where it belongs: among Europe’s elite” and praised the foundations laid for future success.
Slot wrote that Liverpool’s 20th league title “belongs to all of us” and that securing Champions League football ensures the club can continue competing at the highest level. He expressed confidence in the players and emerging talent, stating: “The players who have given so much to this club… have built foundations that will endure. A new generation is emerging, ready to write its own story.”
The 47-year-old also reflected on the tragic death of Diogo Jota last summer, describing the loss as “indescribable” and praising the “love, compassion and support” shown by the Liverpool family. He noted that the way fans honoured Jota “will stay with me for ever.”
Slot referenced the assault on fans after the title parade, when 134 supporters were injured after Paul Doyle drove into them on Water Street. Doyle was later jailed for 21 years and six months. Slot said witnessing the fans’ “spirit of compassion and unity” was a privilege and expressed hope for “justice and accountability” for those affected.
