Liverpool part ways with Arne Slot as Premier League club say search for next head coach underway

Slot succeeded Jurgen Klopp at the Anfield helm back in 2024 and guided The Reds to the Premier League title in his debut season.

However, Liverpool endured a disappointing title defence, ultimately ending the campaign in fifth place, 25 points behind champions Arsenal - and on Saturday The Reds made the decision to relieve Slot of his duties.

"Liverpool FC can confirm Arne Slot is to depart his role as head coach with immediate effect and that the process to appoint a successor is under way," a club statement read.

"Having joined the club in June 2024, Arne went on to deliver our 20th league title in his first season in charge, ending the 2024/25 campaign as LMA Manager of the Year having also guided the team to the Carabao Cup final and the last 16 of the Champions League.

"He subsequently oversaw Champions League qualification for a second successive season in 2025/26 as the Reds also reached the quarter-finals of the same competition."

Liverpool's ownership, meanwhile, voiced their appreciation for all of Slot's hard work during his two years in charge.

"That this was a difficult decision for us to make as a club goes without saying," a statement from the owners read. "The contribution Arne has made to Liverpool FC in the time that he has been with us has been significant, meaningful and - most importantly of all to supporters and ourselves - successful.

"As such, our appreciation for everything he has achieved could not be greater, particularly as it was underpinned by a work ethic, a diligence and a level of expertise which further underlined our view that he is a leader in his field.

"From the moment that we first encountered Arne, it was immediately clear that he is an individual who does not merely accept responsibility, he embraces it.

"This was evident when he agreed to take over as head coach, when he guided us to the Premier League title and throughout the season just ended when he faced considerable challenges and burdens.

"At the same time, we have collectively come to the conclusion that change is necessary in order for the club to keep moving forward. Again, it must be stressed that this is not a decision which has been reached lightly, anything but.

"We would like to take this opportunity to place on record our appreciation for Arne, who will always hold a special place in the history of this football club as the coach who delivered Liverpool’s 20th league title.

"Arne leaves with our gratitude, with a Premier League title to his name, and with the knowledge that he and his family will always be welcomed back at Anfield."

Club captain Virgil van Dijk has since taken to social media to thank his compatriot for his two years in charge of Liverpool.

"We’ll never forget winning the Premier League in our first season together," Van Dijk's message began.

"Thank you, trainer, and best of luck to you and your family for the future."

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