Pressure is intensifying on Liverpool manager Arne Slot, raising the prospect of Fenway Sports Group (FSG) launching another search for a successor at Anfield. Should a change occur, the club's American owners are expected to return to the same five-point recruitment framework that guided them to appoint Slot as Jurgen Klopp's replacement last year.
The Five-Point Blueprint for Anfield Success
Replacing a legendary figure like Jurgen Klopp was a monumental task. To navigate it, FSG established five key criteria for any potential candidate. The first requirement was significant experience at a major club, ensuring the individual could handle the intense pressure and strong personalities within the Liverpool dressing room.
Secondly, a proven track record of winning trophies was deemed essential. With Liverpool competing on multiple fronts, appointing a manager who understood the mentality required to secure silverware was non-negotiable for the ownership.
Commitment to a long-term project formed the third pillar. Liverpool have historically favoured stability over a revolving-door policy, seeking a figure who viewed the club as a destination, not merely a stepping stone.
Academy Focus and Financial Buy-In
The fourth criterion focused on youth development. FSG wanted a coach dedicated to maximising the potential of the club's academy, continuing Liverpool's proud tradition of bringing local talent into the first team while supporting a sustainable financial model.
Finally, and crucially, the chosen manager needed to fully buy into FSG's financial strategy. Despite a record £450 million spend last summer, the club typically prefers a measured approach in the transfer market. Owners were keen to avoid a manager who might publicly challenge this philosophy.
While no candidate was expected to perfectly fulfil all five points, those meeting most were shortlisted. Former midfielder Xabi Alonso was the initial frontrunner before opting to stay at Bayer Leverkusen. Sporting CP's Ruben Amorim, Julian Nagelsmann, and Roberto De Zerbi were also considered.
Why Arne Slot Was Chosen
In the end, Liverpool turned to Feyenoord's Arne Slot, a choice some considered left-field. Despite lacking top European club experience, his work in the Netherlands was compelling. He led Feyenoord to the Eredivisie title in 2022/23 and the KNVB Cup the following season.
Slot demonstrated long-term vision by building Feyenoord into consistent contenders and trusting young players like Tyrell Malacia. Crucially, he raised no public complaints about Liverpool's restrained spending in his first summer, showing alignment with FSG's model. After winning the Premier League last season, he spoke of his long-term commitment to Anfield.
Mounting Pressure and an Uncertain Future
That future is now in serious doubt. A recent downturn in form has placed Slot under severe scrutiny. The situation escalated dramatically following Mohamed Salah's explosive comments after Liverpool's 3-3 draw with Leeds on Saturday. The Egyptian star, angered by being benched for three consecutive matches, stated he felt "betrayed" and had "no relationship" with the manager.
This leaves Slot in a precarious position. If he is unable to reverse the team's fortunes, the same five-point blueprint that paved his way to Anfield may soon be deployed once again by FSG to find his replacement.
