Arne Slot’s friend says he deserves more credit at Liverpool
Arne Slot is facing growing pressure at Liverpool, but strong backing has now emerged from someone who knows him closely, as a former colleague insists the Dutchman deserves far more credit than he is currently receiving.
Arne Slot arrived at Liverpool in June 2024 with a clear identity and immediate impact.
His high-possession 4-2-3-1 system translated quickly, and the results followed.
In his debut season, Liverpool won the Premier League title with authority.
The team finished first, scored 89 league goals, and maintained a 65.3% win rate.
They also averaged 2.21 points per match, which underlined their consistency across the campaign.
That success carried into Europe, where Liverpool remained competitive, although the focus stayed firmly on domestic dominance.
Slot’s calm presence and structured approach ensured a smooth transition from the previous era.
However, the 2025/26 season has exposed new challenges.
Liverpool now sit fifth in the table, 21 points behind leaders Arsenal.
Their win percentage has dropped to 56.5%, and their points per match has fallen sharply to 1.58 as defensive issues have also emerged, with 42 goals conceded so far.
In the Champions League, the situation is equally tense.
Liverpool are trailing 2–0 to Paris Saint-Germain after the quarter-final first leg.
Domestic setbacks have added pressure, including a heavy FA Cup exit to Manchester City.
Injuries and squad changes have disrupted rhythm, turning what looked like a stable project into a season of uncertainty.
Despite the criticism, Marino Pusic has stepped forward to defend his former colleague.
The two built a close relationship during their time at Feyenoord, and that bond remains strong.
“It was a real pleasure to work with Arne,” he said to Voetbal International.
“We have a special bond. That has since become a form of friendship.”
“As far as I am concerned, he is one of the best coaches in the world.”
“I am talking about his demeanour, his football philosophy, how he conveys it, and his manners.”
“I can only speak lyrically about him.”
Pusic also addressed the expectations surrounding Liverpool’s current struggles.
“I think Arne deserves much more credit at Liverpool right now than he is getting,” he added.
“Many people forget how frequently Liverpool has become champion of England in recent decades.”
“Arne did it right away in his first season, but Jürgen Klopp has also only won the Premier League title once.”
“Before that, Liverpool last won the league title in 1990.”
“And now it is expected that Arne will win the title twice in a row.”
“Especially because so much money has been spent. That doesn’t always work.”
He finished with a clear message to the club.
“They would do well at Liverpool to remain calm and give Arne and his staff, with Sipke Hulshoff and Giovanni van Bronckhorst, their confidence.”