Arne Slot set to be dismissed by Liverpool as claims emerge that four players are responsible
Arne Slot could be dismissed by Liverpool unless results improve quickly, with decisive fixtures against Newcastle, Manchester City and Sunderland looming.
The pressure intensified after a dramatic 3-2 defeat to Bournemouth, leaving Slot’s side without a win in their last five Premier League matches and with just five victories from 18 games overall.
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Slot’s position is becoming increasingly difficult to defend, with sections of the fanbase now openly turning against him.
However, Brown suggested the manager has not been helped by his players, with criticism directed at the defence — including captain Virgil van Dijk.
Van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté have both been guilty of costly errors this season, and Liverpool no longer appear to have the solid defensive base that previously underpinned their success.
Slot under mounting pressure at Anfield
Liverpool supporters have begun calling for Slot’s removal following the club’s poor run, which has seen them slip to sixth in the Premier League, behind rivals Manchester United.
Brown warned that unless results improve soon, the mounting pressure could prove decisive for Slot’s future.
“Arne Slot is under real pressure at Liverpool,” Brown said.
“They spent a huge amount of money in the summer and when results don’t follow, the blame naturally lands on the manager.
“He still has credit from last season, but if you’re not winning games, that only carries you so far. The fans are clearly getting frustrated.
“Five wins in 18 league games is simply not acceptable for a Liverpool manager — they have to start winning.
“A major issue behind their form is the defence.
“The two centre-backs, including Van Dijk, haven’t been close to the required level, and Liverpool are dropping points because they lack a solid foundation.
“Van Dijk is usually seen as the calming influence, but that hasn’t been the case this season, and it’s a serious concern.
“That defensive instability has piled pressure on the manager, and if this continues, he will lose his job.”
Liverpool monitoring Micky van de Ven
With growing doubts over their defensive reliability, Liverpool are reportedly tracking several centre-back options, including Tottenham’s Micky van de Ven.
Football Insider reported on January 24 that the Dutch defender could consider leaving Spurs if their struggles persist, putting a number of clubs on alert.
Liverpool are believed to be leading the race for Van de Ven, who continues to be linked with a move away from North London, while Real Madrid are also monitoring his situation.
Tottenham manager Thomas Frank is also under intense scrutiny, and continued poor form could see Spurs lose key players.
Currently sitting 14th in the Premier League, Tottenham’s hopes of securing Champions League qualification appear increasingly remote.
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