Anfield Humiliation as Liverpool's Slump Continues
Liverpool's season plunged to new depths on Wednesday night as they suffered an embarrassing 4-1 home defeat against PSV at Anfield. The performance from Arne Slot's side was dire throughout the match, marking their ninth loss in just twelve games. Alarmingly, this was the third consecutive occasion where they have been beaten by a three-goal margin.
Summer Investment Fails to Deliver Promised Dynasty
Following last season's Premier League triumph and a substantial summer spend of £446million on players including Milos Kerkez, Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike, and Florian Wirtz, many anticipated the Reds would establish a lasting dynasty. However, the reality has proven starkly different. Amid this disastrous run of form, sections of the fanbase are now turning on Slot, despite the stunning impact he made during his debut season in charge.
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher offered his public backing to the under-fire Dutch manager on Wednesday, though he conceded that the growing speculation about Slot's future was 'inevitable' given the team's profound struggles on the pitch.
Contenders for the Hot Seat: Who Could Replace Slot?
In light of the escalating situation, we examine the six current bookmakers' favourites to become the next Liverpool manager and assess the likelihood of them replacing Slot if the unthinkable were to happen.
Jurgen Klopp - 2/1
An emotional return for Jurgen Klopp would be a remarkable story. The German, who managed Liverpool for 491 games over nine years from 2015 to 2024, is the bookies' favourite. His legendary status is built on eight trophies and 299 victories. However, he has been out of management since leaving, taking a role with Red Bull. While he recently stated he would 'never coach a different team in England', leaving a theoretical door open for Liverpool, a return seems improbable given his past comments on emotional exhaustion.
LIKELIHOOD RATING: 3/10
Andoni Iraola - 5/1
Andoni Iraola continues to earn widespread praise for his exceptional work at Bournemouth. He was linked with top clubs last summer and has a prior working relationship with Liverpool's much-criticised defender Milos Kerkez. Despite his contract expiring next summer, it appears unlikely he would abandon Bournemouth mid-season, though the opportunity might prove too tempting to refuse.
LIKELIHOOD RATING: 5/10
Oliver Glasner - 6/1
The transformation of Crystal Palace under Oliver Glasner has been remarkable. He has created an incisive, dynamic, and well-drilled team. Like Iraola, his contract expires soon, adding to his appeal. However, a potential sticking point for a club like Liverpool is the perception that his teams, while excellent out of possession, do not dominate the ball—a key requirement for elite sides.
LIKELIHOOD RATING: 4/10
Xabi Alonso - 6/1
Xabi Alonso was a leading candidate before Slot's appointment but publicly committed to Bayer Leverkusen. His subsequent move to Real Madrid last summer and the fact he is just months into a three-year deal at the Bernabeu makes a switch to Anfield extremely unlikely at this juncture.
LIKELIHOOD RATING: 2/10
Steven Gerrard - 10/1
An appointment for club icon Steven Gerrard would be fascinating. His coaching record since leaving Rangers is mixed, and his recent harsh criticism of Liverpool's players could create a difficult dressing room environment. However, his legendary status could provide a short-term morale boost, reminiscent of Kenny Dalglish's return in 2011.
LIKELIHOOD RATING: 4/10
Julian Nagelsmann - 10/1
Despite being a highly-rated young coach, Julian Nagelsmann is under contract with the German national team until Euro 2028. While his side underwhelmed at times during a weak qualifying group, it seems very improbable he would leave his post, especially with a World Cup on the horizon.
LIKELIHOOD RATING: 2/10
