Much of the 2025/26 season at Liverpool has been spent talking about Arne Slot’s future.
As early as November, fans were naming their ideal Slot replacement during a dire run of form.
Liverpool lost nine games out of 12, but FSG opted to stick with the Dutchman at the time.
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However, while results have improved, the Reds’ performances remain subpar, and it has even been claimed this week that an interim manager replacing Slot this term can’t be ruled out.
Who would you like to see become Liverpool’s interim manager IF Slot is let go?
Steven Gerrard during Al-Shabab v Al-Ettifaq: Saudi Pro League
Credit: Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images
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Now, former player Jermaine Pennant has continued the debate around the 47-year-old’s future.
Why there is now ‘added pressure on Arne Slot’ at Liverpool
Speaking to talkSPORT this week, the ex-winger was asked about Xabi Alonso leaving Real Madrid.
Liverpool spoke to Alonso before they appointed Slot as Jurgen Klopp’s successor.
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This week has seen the Spaniard mooted for an Anfield return as well, and Pennant thinks that the fact one of FSG’s previous managerial targets is now available has put more pressure on the current coach.
He said: “I think Liverpool were interested in him before when he was at Leverkusen, but he chose to go Real Madrid.
“I think this puts a little bit more added pressure on Arne Slot because I’m sure the board will be looking at this going okay our man is now available who [was] probably our first choice.
“Now if things don’t improve, I would, this is just my personal opinion, I think that he’s got a problem until the end of the season to either turn this season around or to show the board why next season will be better.”
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Sadio Mane pats the Champions League trophy after Liverpool beat Tottenham Hotspur in the final at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid (Credit: Getty Images/Jose Breton/NurPhoto).
Mohamed Salah celebrates after scoring for Liverpool against Southampton in the Premier League at Anfield (Credit: Getty Images/Julian Finney).
Photo Credit: Getty Images/Jose Breton/NurPhoto/Julian Finney
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Liverpool could face competition for Xabi Alonso
It remains to be seen if Liverpool will dismiss Slot mid-season or wait until the end of 2025/26 to assess the situation.
If they do hold off on appointing a new coach until the summer, there may be more competition for the former Real Madrid man.
It has been suggested that Manchester City could battle Liverpool for Alonso.
Pep Guardiola remains under contract until 2027, but the possibility of City moving for his fellow countryman has been discussed this week.
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