How much longer can Liverpool back Arne Slot?

December 4, 2025 Oliver Obel

The weekend win over West Ham had offered a brief sense of relief after a dismal run of results. Local outlets noted beforehand that Slot intended to stick largely with the same players against Sunderland, hoping familiarity would lend some stability.

Instead, Liverpool never found any rhythm. Large pockets of the crowd groaned throughout the second half as another promising move broke down. The equaliser came only when Sunderland turned a Florian Wirtz effort into their own net late on, and Federico Chiesa had to hook the ball off the line in stoppage time to prevent defeat.

Former defender Jamie Carragher, speaking on the broadcast afterwards, didn’t try to sugarcoat it. He called the performance “very worrying,” a verdict that mirrored the general atmosphere in the ground.

A strong start overshadowed

Slot’s first season had been a success by any measure. Coverage at the time highlighted how he delivered a league title while easing the club through the shock of Jürgen Klopp’s departure no small achievement.

This year has been harder to piece together. Liverpool invested heavily in the summer, bringing in Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak, Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong as part of a shift toward a more assertive, front-foot system.

The plan has looked promising in moments but rarely in extended spells. Several senior players appear to be wrestling with the league’s physical demands, and the defensive shape previously a trademark has been unusually fragile.

The numbers reflect the unease: four wins in 14 matches across competitions, and long stretches where the team seem unsure of how to break opponents down.

Pressure rising behind the scenes

It’s no secret that December fixtures often shape the direction of a Premier League season. Inside the club, views vary. Some staff members believe Slot deserves patience while the squad adjusts, while others quietly acknowledge that the situation cannot drift much further without consequences.

Supporters, too, are split. You can sense frustration building, but not quite the open revolt that forces immediate change. Still, the conversation about potential successors is no longer just talk-radio chatter it has entered boardroom discussions.

Glasner’s name won’t go away

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner is regularly mentioned as the most credible alternative. Reporting from Reuters and BBC Sport has outlined his achievements at Selhurst Park, including an FA Cup triumph, a Community Shield win and a period of stability rarely seen at the club.

His contract runs out at the end of the season, and he has recently voiced dissatisfaction with the backing he has received comments that naturally sparked speculation about his future.

People close to Palace insist he remains committed for now, but several figures around Liverpool view him as an attractive option should the club decide to pivot.

For the moment, Slot remains in charge. But the Sunderland draw felt like another step toward a decision point one the club may soon be unable to avoid.

Sources: Reuters; BBC Sport; AP