Liverpool sack Arne Slot after fifth-place finish, 25 points behind champions Arsenal

Liverpool have parted ways with head coach Arne Slot with immediate effect after the conclusion of the 2025/26 Premier League season, the club confirmed in an official statement. The Dutchman leaves Anfield having guided Liverpool to their 20th league title in his debut campaign, but was unable to sustain that level in the following year.

The club finished fifth in the 2025/26 season, ending the campaign 25 points behind champions Arsenal — a gulf that ultimately cost Slot his job despite earlier reports suggesting he would be given another season to reverse the club’s decline.

In their statement, Liverpool acknowledged the difficulty of the decision while framing it as necessary for the club’s progress. “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,” the club wrote. “At the same time, we have collectively come to the conclusion that change is necessary in order for the club to keep moving forward.”

The statement also paid tribute to Slot’s legacy: “We would like 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.”

Liverpool confirmed that the process to appoint a successor is already under way. Andoni Iraola has emerged as one available candidate after departing AFC Bournemouth, where he guided the Cherries into European competition.

The managerial reshuffle extends well beyond Anfield. Manchester City are also searching for a new head coach following Pep Guardiola’s exit after a decade at the Etihad Stadium. Meanwhile, Chelsea and Manchester United will both begin the 2026/27 season under new permanent managers — Xabi Alonso and Michael Carrick, respectively — meaning four of England’s traditional top six clubs will be led by new appointments next term.