Arne Slot: I sense ‘full backing’ from Liverpool management during challenging period
Arne Slot asserts that he feels the “full backing” of the Liverpool management as he faces increasing scrutiny following three straight losses.
After their FA Cup journey concluded with a 4-0 defeat to Manchester City last week, Liverpool’s aspirations in the Champions League are precarious after Wednesday’s 2-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of the quarter-finals.
A 2-1 defeat at Brighton in their most recent league match has left the reigning champions in fifth place, battling for Champions League qualification, and speculation regarding Slot’s job security has intensified at Anfield, a year after clinching the Premier League title.
“I find myself repeating this often, but I have stated numerous times that I feel a great deal of support, not just from the owners and from Richard [Hughes, sporting director] and Michael [Edwards, chief executive], but I also sense significant backing from them,” Slot remarked ahead of Saturday’s fixture against Fulham.
“As strange as it may seem, I also perceive the support of the fans. When we were in Paris, as the players came out for the warm-up after a 4-0 defeat, the fans immediately began singing ‘We love you, Liverpool.’
“And even after we were — I think it’s fair to say — outperformed for the entire 90 minutes, we approached the away section and they continued to sing and applaud us, so that support has been something I’ve felt consistently.”
“I have mentioned several times that the club is aware of the current phase we are in, and in the meantime, I feel complete support.”
Slot’s remarks regarding fan support came just before anticipated protests against the club’s decision to increase ticket prices for the next three years in accordance with inflation.
With concerns that the club’s dedicated supporters may be priced out, Slot was questioned about the significance of those in attendance.
“It’s not just during challenging times,” he stated. “I believe Anfield has historically demonstrated, and also since my arrival, how crucial these fans are for us.
“When we faced Galatasaray, we had a difficult away match where their supporters were very vocal, but then Anfield proved what true support sounds like. They aided us throughout that game, and I can recall numerous instances I have experienced and that are part of this club’s history.
“That is what makes it feel exceptional… we have always sensed that support, and I have consistently felt that support in both good and challenging times. I hope that despite the protests, the fans can continue to be as supportive as they have been for us this season and last.”
Slot also honored left-back Andy Robertson, who announced on Thursday that he will depart Liverpool this summer after nine seasons during which he secured two Premier League titles, the Champions League, FA Cup, and two League Cups among various accolades.
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“He has enjoyed many excellent seasons here as a player, but I believe people have also come to know him as a remarkable individual…” Slot commented.
“He has won everything here, dedicated many years to this club, and truly loves this club. It has been a fantastic nine years, but we also observed this season that he did not play as frequently as he was accustomed to.
“Still a considerable amount, but not as much as he was used to, and as a consequence, he is departing.”
