Liverpool FC is at a crossroads as head coach Arne Slot faces mounting pressure following a disappointing season. The club, which won the Premier League title just a year ago, now finds itself grappling with squad unrest and the impending departure of star player Mohamed Salah.
Why it matters: The outcome of Liverpool's final match against Brentford on May 24, 2026, could determine the club's Champions League qualification and Slot's future at Anfield.
Ruud Gullit believes Liverpool should give Slot another season to rebuild after a difficult campaign.
Slot has come under fire from fans due to poor results, leading to calls for a change in management.
With Salah leaving, Liverpool must navigate the challenges of squad morale and public criticism.
Driving the news: Mohamed Salah's recent comments have intensified scrutiny on Slot's tactics. In a social media post, Salah called for a return to the club's traditional "heavy metal" style of play, reminiscent of former manager Jürgen Klopp.
Salah's post was a thinly-veiled critique of Slot's approach and was liked by several teammates, indicating widespread discontent.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher noted that Slot faces a difficult situation in managing Salah's final game, as the player's popularity among fans complicates tactical decisions.
The match against Brentford is not just a farewell for Salah but also a potential turning point for Liverpool's Champions League hopes.
State of play: Liverpool's current form has been alarming, with a recent 4-2 defeat at Aston Villa leading to speculation about Slot's future.
The club's management, Fenway Sports Group, is reportedly divided over retaining Slot, with an end-of-season review scheduled after the final match.
Slot's belief in his methods has been challenged as the team's performance has regressed significantly over the last 18 months.
Reports suggest that the squad is in revolt, exacerbated by Salah's public criticism of Slot's tactical decisions.
The big picture: Liverpool's decision to back Slot comes at a cost, as they recently abandoned a major deal for former player Xabi Alonso, who will take over as Chelsea's head coach.
Slot was viewed as a long-term fit for Liverpool's playing style since his appointment, but results have led to questions about this belief.
The club's playing style has drifted away from Klopp's successful formula, raising concerns about identity and direction.
With a summer transfer window approaching, Liverpool aims to revamp the squad, but the current atmosphere may hinder recruitment efforts.
What they're saying: Gullit emphasized the need for time to heal within the club following the death of Diogo Jota, which has affected team dynamics.
“The whole situation with Diogo Jota hung over that club the entire time,” Gullit said. “That feeling — that missing — will stay for a long, long time.”
Gullit added that new players entering the squad will face challenges adapting to the current environment.
As Salah prepares to leave, he expressed hope that Slot would find a way to restore Liverpool's attacking identity.
By the numbers: Liverpool's performance metrics have declined sharply since Slot took over.
In the past season, Liverpool has dropped out of title contention, finishing well behind league leaders.
Slot's tactical changes have led to a less effective offensive strategy, with the team scoring significantly fewer goals compared to the previous year.
The upcoming transfer window is expected to see Liverpool invest heavily to address deficiencies in the squad.
What's next: The final match against Brentford will be a decisive moment for both Slot and the club's future.
Should Liverpool fail to secure a Champions League spot, Slot's position may become untenable, with Luis Enrique already seen as a leading candidate to replace him.
The club's leadership will conduct a thorough review of the season and make decisions based on performance and future prospects.
Fans will follow closely closely to see how the team responds in Salah's farewell match, which could set the tone for the next season.