When Arne Slot arrived at Liverpool ahead of last season, he hit pause on the usual turbulence that follows the departure of a legendary manager like Jurgen Klopp.
Rather than overhauling the squad, Slot leaned on Liverpool’s established stars and even improved players like Ryan Gravenberch.
The result? A seamless league title campaign that made it feel as though nothing had changed.
But that calm period is over. The transition can no longer be delayed, and Liverpool is starting to feel the consequences.
Recent results have been jarring, even embarrassing, and the calls for Slot’s dismissal are growing louder.
Early Criticism vs. Premature Judgement
Despite the mounting pressure, it would be rash to fire Slot now.
What’s clear, however, is that he must confront the reality of a changing squad.
Some players who were central to Liverpool’s success under Klopp are no longer providing the consistency required at the top level.
Wayne Rooney and Jamie Carragher have publicly questioned Mohamed Salah’s form, while Steven Gerrard has defended him.
But Slot faces a difficult decision with one of Liverpool’s most celebrated players.
Salah’s Dip in Form Is Hard to Ignore
Salah’s influence has waned. Since mid-September, he’s scored just twice in the league and hasn’t assisted anyone since the 2-1 derby win over Everton.
Once a talisman, Salah now risks becoming a luxury Liverpool can’t afford.
During Wednesday’s 4-1 home defeat to PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League, Salah barely made an impact.
He’s not the only underperformer, but his struggles are emblematic of Liverpool’s wider issues.
The Need for Bold Squad Changes
Liverpool needs more than nostalgia; they need results.
With the team leaking goals and recent summer signings yet to make a decisive impact, Slot must act decisively.
The argument that Federico Chiesa isn’t ready to start cannot overshadow the opportunity to try alternatives.
Players like Cody Gakpo and Hugo Ekitike, if fit, could shake up the lineup alongside Alexander Isak.
Experimenting now may prepare the team for life without Salah, who will leave for the Africa Cup of Nations in mid-December, potentially missing up to nine games.
Preparing for Life Without Salah
Slot should treat the upcoming period as a chance to adapt.
Using Salah off the bench until he departs could inject energy into the side while allowing younger or new players to stake a claim.
When Salah returns, Liverpool may look different.
With reinforcements such as Marc Guehi integrated into the team, he may need to fight for his place or even adjust to a manager who has fully embraced the post-Klopp era.
Embracing Change to Rebuild Strength
Slot has a critical window to reinvigorate Liverpool.
The club has spent wisely, but without tough decisions and some fresh ideas on the pitch, recent humiliations could become a recurring theme.
Transition is never easy, but the sooner Liverpool faces it head-on, the sooner they can reclaim the dominance Klopp once built.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn