Liverpool icon Didi Hamann has weighed in on the precarious situation facing Arne Slot at the helm of the Reds. Following an electrifying debut season at Anfield which saw Slot’s side claim the Premier League title by a remarkable 10-point margin, this season’s form has been anything but consistent.
Liverpool started the defence of their title in sublime style, clinching victory in their first five league encounters. Yet, since that promising commencement, the Merseyside club’s fortunes have taken a nosedive, managing just one additional league victory while succumbing to six defeats, plunging them into 12th on the table. Compounding their woes, the Reds have also suffered early exits from the League Cup and a stinging loss in the Champions League.
During a dismal period from late September to early October, Liverpool endured a four-match losing streak, which has now been exacerbated by back-to-back 3-0 losses against rivals Manchester City and Nottingham Forest. In light of this troubling trajectory, speculation is rife regarding Slot’s future, although Liverpool remain publicly supportive of the manager who delivered top-flight success just months ago.
Nonetheless, former midfield maestro Hamann, speaking to talkSPORT, suggested that the clock is ticking for Slot, hinting that the forthcoming matches are critical for his continued stewardship.
“I don’t think anybody wants to see him leave because of what he achieved last season,” Hamann reflected. “But the current run of form is concerning. As a club, progress is what’s necessary. The upcoming two fixtures will be crucial.”
With Arsenal and Chelsea looking formidable, the Reds face a battle to secure a top-four finish, a fight made no easier by their upcoming opponents. First, they encounter West Ham, who linger just above the relegation zone, followed by a seemingly daunting clash against newly-promoted Sunderland. The Black Cats have solidified their top-flight credentials this season, notably toppling Chelsea and holding Arsenal to a draw.
As Liverpool’s destiny hangs in the balance, eyes will be firmly fixed on Slot and whether he can recalibrate his side and steer them back to calmer waters.