The pressure is mounting on Arne Slot at Anfield after a dismal run of results, but a legendary voice from across the footballing divide has offered some timeless advice. Sir Alex Ferguson, the iconic former Manchester United manager, has in the past made clear his stance on how clubs should handle such situations, and his words now resonate loudly for Liverpool's decision-makers.
Ferguson's Philosophy on Managerial Patience
Speaking in 2015, Ferguson addressed the culture of quick managerial dismissals, drawing on his own unparalleled 27-year tenure at Old Trafford. "There's no evidence that sacking a manager gives you success," he stated emphatically. Instead, he pointed to the evidence of long-term stability at clubs like his own Manchester United, Arsenal under Arsene Wenger, and Nottingham Forest with Brian Clough.
Ferguson argued that retaining a manager through tough periods is what breeds consistency and eventual success. He highlighted Wenger's 22-year reign at Arsenal, which yielded three Premier League titles and seven FA Cups while fundamentally shaping the club's identity. Similarly, he referenced Brian Clough's 18-year spell at Nottingham Forest, a period that included the remarkable feat of winning back-to-back European Cups.
Slot's Rollercoaster Ride at Anfield
This sage advice comes at a critical juncture for Arne Slot and Liverpool. The Dutchman's debut campaign was a spectacular success, delivering the Premier League title and putting the club in contention for an historic quadruple. This season began in similarly blistering fashion with seven consecutive wins.
However, the tide has turned dramatically. A 1-1 home draw with Sunderland on Wednesday 4th December 2025 extended a worrying sequence. Liverpool have now managed just four victories in their last 14 matches across all competitions, leaving Slot firmly under the spotlight.
Historical Context and the Road Ahead
Despite the current crisis, history suggests Liverpool's owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), are likely to show faith. The club has traditionally favoured stability, appointing only seven managers in the 21st century. This contrasts sharply with Manchester United, who have had six permanent managers since Ferguson's retirement in 2013 alone.
Ferguson's own experience is a testament to the power of patience. He faced severe scrutiny at various points during his legendary career but was always backed by the United board, a decision that yielded unprecedented glory. For Slot, the challenge is to recapture the magic of his first season and the early weeks of this campaign. The underlying quality in the squad suggests a turnaround may require only minor adjustments.
As the debate rages on Merseyside, the counsel from one of football's greatest minds is unequivocal: in the pursuit of lasting success, a little trust can go an awfully long way.
