Jamie Carragher is convinced that Liverpool’s senior figures will continue to stand firmly behind Arne Slot, even after another damaging result for the Reds on Sunday.
Liverpool looked set for a crucial victory after Dominik Szoboszlai curled home a stunning free kick, but the reigning Premier League champions were ultimately beaten 2-1 by Manchester City at Anfield. A decisive goal conceded in stoppage time — the sixth such occurrence this season — left the Reds still five points adrift of the Champions League places.
Slot’s future has come under increasing scrutiny from outside the club, with pundit Jamie O’Hara recently suggesting that failure to qualify for Europe’s elite competition would leave the 47-year-old’s position untenable.
However, Carragher believes Liverpool remain committed to Slot and have no immediate plans to change course. He pointed to a recent roundtable discussion involving Billy Hogan, Richard Hughes and Slot, which was shared via the club’s official channels, as clear evidence of institutional backing for the Dutch coach.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Carragher said the discussion felt like a deliberate message from the club. He suggested it was Liverpool’s way of telling supporters and pundits alike that the manager remains their chosen man and that speculation over his job should be put to rest. In his view, Slot is likely to stay regardless of outside noise, unless Liverpool were to suffer an early exit from competitions like the FA Cup or Champions League.
Carragher added that, based on what he has seen and read, all signs point to the hierarchy backing Slot and accepting the challenges the team has faced this season.
While pressure remains, Slot’s position appears secure for now. Carragher noted that Liverpool still have plenty to play for, and despite a difficult run of form, the season could yet end on a positive note. Silverware always changes the narrative, and a deep Champions League run — or even lifting the trophy — would instantly define the campaign, much like the unforgettable 2005 triumph in Istanbul overshadowed domestic struggles.
In the league, finishing fifth may still be enough to secure Champions League qualification. Liverpool sit just four points off that spot with 13 matches remaining, making the target difficult but far from impossible.
That said, the club’s stance could shift if Champions League football is missed next season, particularly given Liverpool started the campaign as defending champions and favourites to retain the title. While Slot is unlikely to be dismissed before the end of May, further domestic slippage could force uncomfortable conversations behind the scenes at Anfield.
