Arne Slot's Liverpool suffered a humiliating 4-1 defeat at home to PSV Eindhoven, extending their crisis with a ninth loss in 12 games. The Dutch manager admitted it is 'normal' to question his position, though he insists he feels the support of the club's hierarchy. This was Liverpool's heaviest European home defeat, equalling a previous 4-0 loss to Real Madrid.
The hosts took the lead through a penalty after Virgil van Dijk handled a corner, though the defender claimed he was pushed. PSV equalised before halftime via Guus Til, then took control in the second half. Couhaib Driouech scored twice, including a late brace, as Liverpool's defensive frailties were exposed once again. Dominik Szoboszlai had briefly levelled for Liverpool, but it was not enough.
Slot acknowledged the shock of the result, saying, 'It is a shock for everyone, for the players, for me, this is very unexpected.' He added that while he feels safe in his role, questions are inevitable with such poor form. The defeat follows a 3-0 loss to Nottingham Forest and leaves Liverpool 12th in the Premier League and 13th in the Champions League.
PSV's victory was historic, as they became the first Dutch side to win at Anfield since 1953. Liverpool have now lost three consecutive games by three goals for the first time since that relegation season. Slot's decision to restore Szoboszlai to midfield was a rare positive, but the overall performance was marred by individual errors and a lack of cohesion.
