Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group remain “steadfastly behind” Arne Slot and their “internal thinking” on Xabi Alonso may not match that of many supporters.
That is according to the Times‘ Paul Joyce, with the leading journalist providing an in-depth update on Slot’s position as head coach.
It is maintained that, despite the external pressure facing the Dutchman, FSG “want him to emerge from the turbulence” and expect him to “reassert himself” when “underlying issues are resolved.”
This will not be encouraging for the growing number of supporters calling for a change in the Anfield dugout – with Alonso by far the most popular candidate to replace Slot.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Tuesday, November 5, 2024: Bayer Leverkusen's head coach Xabi Alonso during the UEFA Champions League game between Liverpool FC and Bayer Leverkusen at Anfield. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
And according to Joyce, while the “external expectation” is that the Spaniard would be targeted, “there is little to suggest that aligns with internal thinking.”
That comes despite Alonso’s credentials after leading Bayer Leverkusen to the Bundesliga title in 2023/24 without losing a single game.
Instead the focus remains on securing Champions League football for next season while battling for silverware in both Europe and FA Cup.
But it appears as though FSG are not certain to relieve Slot of his duties even if he fails to finish in the Premier League‘s top five.
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“While the final leg of the season feels important, FSG do not believe lightning simply struck last term,” Joyce writes.
“The prevailing view is that Slot was crucial to the league title and that the head coach with a track record of success has not just disappeared.”
That confidence is shared by Slot himself, who according to Joyce has told friends privately that he “will turn it round.”
Why Liverpool fans don’t share FSG’s stance on Slot
NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND - Sunday, February 22, 2026: Liverpool's head coach Arne Slot on the pitch before the FA Premier League match between Nottingham Forest FC and Liverpool FC at the City Ground. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
From fan’s perspective it is still difficult to see that being the case, particularly after the 47-year-old lost the backing of many of those who are at Anfield week in, week out.
There is a consensus that once a Liverpool manager loses those fans, it is only a matter of time before his spell in the dugout comes to an end.
While that feeling may not be shared within FSG it is still hard to envisage an unpopular head coach defying such odds, particularly with the financial ramifications of missing out on next season’s Champions League.
Nevertheless, the public stance is unwavering and understandably so: those within Liverpool nor FSG itself would indicate doubts over Slot while the main objectives for the season are still within reach.