Judgement day is approaching for Arne Slot, though not directly on Sunday when Liverpool face Manchester United at Old Trafford. The match offers a comparison between teams separated by 42 points last season, but Slot's future at Anfield appears secure, with the club giving no indication of a change. However, the Dutchman's own assessment of his performance remains pending.
Slot's Self-Judgment
Slot revealed he will judge himself after the final four games, with Champions League qualification a key benchmark. 'It depends on the outcome. I will judge myself in four games,' he said, hinting that missing out on Europe's elite competition would be unacceptable. Despite winning Liverpool's second league title in 35 years last season, Slot acknowledges that past achievements do not guarantee job security. 'If a player won the last five years the Premier League, he needs to show up every week to stay in the team. That is how this industry works,' he added.
Challenges and Criticism
Liverpool have suffered 17 defeats this season and sit 15 points off the Premier League summit, a 24-point drop from their championship-winning campaign. Slot cites injuries and a squad in transition as mitigating factors, with key players like Mohamed Salah and potentially Alisson departing. 'The transition hasn't been completed yet. Again this summer, as a minimum of two will leave,' he noted. Despite spending £450 million, Slot believes the rebuilding process is ongoing.
Slot also addressed criticism, saying, 'What makes it hard is trying to win the next game with so many players unavailable. But that you get criticised in a job like this, that is not hard.' He remains focused on the upcoming matches, which will shape his final verdict on the season.
