Fenway Sports Group (FSG), Liverpool’s owners, have been described in coverage as cautious about repeating what some pundits and outlets label a “naive” managerial decision—potentially referring to the quick appointment of Slot after Jurgen Klopp’s departure or the risks of another abrupt change in a transitional period. While no official warning from FSG has been publicly confirmed, the narrative around job security has intensified, with speculation about contingency planning (including “first contact” with Xabi Alonso) and shortlists of replacements.
To avoid the sack and stabilize his position, Slot must focus on tangible improvements and results in the remaining months of the 2025/26 campaign. Here’s a realistic breakdown of key steps he can take, based on current analyses from sources like Sports Mole, TEAMtalk, The Mirror, and others:
- Deliver immediate results and momentum: Slot needs a strong run of wins to rebuild confidence. With the Premier League title race tight and Champions League qualification still in play (Liverpool in contention for top-eight automatic progression), turning draws/losses into victories in upcoming fixtures is crucial. Pundits emphasize that consistent points—especially against top-half teams—would demonstrate progress and buy time. A remarkable achievement, such as securing a top-four finish or advancing deep in Europe despite the rocky patch, could make him “unsackable” in some eyes, as one report notes FSG might hesitate if he delivers against expectations.
- Address defensive and late-game vulnerabilities: Liverpool’s issues with late concessions (e.g., Bournemouth’s 95th-minute winner) and “amateurish” moments have been highlighted as piling pressure. Slot should prioritize tactical tweaks—better set-piece organization, improved mid-block pressing, and rotation to manage fatigue from a congested schedule. Reinforcing depth (e.g., via the potential recall of loanee Kostas Tsimikas or internal solutions) without major January spends aligns with the club’s measured approach.
- Manage key player dynamics and distractions: The ongoing Mohamed Salah saga has been called a “distraction” by pundits like Dietmar Hamann. Slot must continue reintegrating Salah effectively (as seen post-AFCON) while fostering unity—ensuring no unresolved issues linger in the dressing room. Legends like Steven Gerrard and John Barnes have stressed ruthlessness and full commitment; Slot needs to enforce standards to avoid perceptions of favoritism or unresolved tension.
- Show tactical evolution and adaptability: Critics point to Slot’s system struggling against low blocks or in transition. Demonstrating adjustments—e.g., more flexibility in formations, better use of set-pieces (like Dominik Szoboszlai’s clever free-kick vs. Marseille), or sharper finishing—would counter claims of naivety. Slot’s post-match admissions (e.g., on pressure and fatigue) show self-awareness; building on that with visible improvements could sway doubters.
- Leverage FSG’s long-term patience: Reports indicate FSG still back Slot (no immediate sacking plans post-draws/losses), viewing this as his debut season in a post-Klopp rebuild. Avoiding knee-jerk changes fits their philosophy—unlike clubs that sack quickly. Consistent communication with owners, clear progress metrics (e.g., points per game upward trend), and squad development (young talents stepping up) would reinforce stability.
Ultimately, Slot’s fate hinges on results over the next 2-3 months. A run of strong performances could silence critics and secure his position into summer 2026 (and beyond), while continued stumbles might force FSG’s hand despite their caution against hasty decisions. The club has contingency plans (e.g., Alonso links), but stability remains the preference if Slot delivers. Pressure is high, but it’s not terminal yet—focus on grinding out wins and tactical tweaks to turn the tide. 🔴
Do you think Slot can turn it around, or is change inevitable soon?
