Liverpool dismiss Slot; Iraola set to take over.

Liverpool announced the dismissal of manager Arne Slot on Saturday, stating that the club was seeking a “change of direction” after a disappointing defence of their Premier League title.

The Reds finished fifth in the league, 25 points behind champions Arsenal, despite spending a Premier League record of nearly £450 million ($605 million) on new players in a single transfer window last year.

Outgoing Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is reportedly set to take over at Anfield after leading the Cherries into Europe for the first time in the club’s history.

Just over a year ago, Slot was praised for succeeding Jurgen Klopp and guiding Liverpool to a record‑equalling 20th English top‑flight title in his first season.

However, the Dutchman’s performance this season was met with criticism after a series of lacklustre results. Liverpool lost 19 times in all competitions, and a return of 60 Premier League points was the lowest since the 2015/16 season.

Dressing‑room tensions were also reported, most notably from Mohamed Salah as he departed the club. In an explosive social media post earlier this month, Salah called for a return to “heavy metal football”, a perceived dig at Slot’s more cautious approach. The post was liked by several members of the Liverpool squad.

Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard told TNT Sports, “I’m not surprised. I’m gutted for Arne Slot because in his first year, he did an incredible job. Taking the reins from the great Jurgen Klopp was a tough task and big shoes to fill. I think he did it seamlessly. It’s very difficult to win the Premier League, and I know that more than most.”

Despite the club’s difficulties, reports suggested that Slot might have been given a chance to secure Champions League qualification before the decision to terminate his contract.

– ‘Different approach’ –

The club’s owners, the American‑based Fenway Sports Group, have responded to fan pressure by ending the former Feyenoord boss’s tenure.

The club released a statement saying, “The conclusion we have come to is built on a belief that the team’s trajectory is best addressed through a change of direction.”

“That does not diminish the work Arne has done here, or the respect we have for him. Nor is it a reflection of his talents. Rather, it is indicative of the need for a different approach. 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.”

Liverpool added that “the process to appoint a successor is under way.”

Many fans had hoped for the return of Xabi Alonso to Anfield, but the former midfielder will instead take charge of Chelsea next season.

Iraola’s reputation has risen after an 18‑game unbeaten league run that finished the campaign in sixth place, just three points behind Liverpool despite vastly inferior resources.

The Spaniard also worked closely with Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes, who previously held a similar role at Bournemouth.

Slot ultimately faced criticism for failing to generate a return on Liverpool’s substantial investment last summer. British transfer‑record signing Alexander Isak struggled with fitness, while Florian Wirtz had difficulty adapting to the Premier League after a £100 million move from Bayer Leverkusen.

Slot also dealt with emotional turmoil following the death of forward Diogo Jota in a car accident in July.

The post Liverpool sack Slot, Iraola in line to take over appeared first on Vanguard News.