Arne Slot Fires Back: Why 'Dramatic' Liverpool Overhaul Would Be 'Almost Impossible'
Liverpool boss Arne Slot has maintained that he lacks the necessary squad depth to modify his favored tactical approach.
What began as five consecutive victories in their Premier League title defense has transformed into a devastating decline, with six losses in their past seven league matches placing immense scrutiny on Slot. During this challenging period, the Reds have also been knocked out of the Carabao Cup and suffered a crushing 4–1 home loss to PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League.
With a staggering 37 goals conceded in 20 matches this campaign—while Liverpool have managed only 34 goals scored—Slot faces mounting questions about his future. The Dutch tactician claims he continues to have the backing of the hierarchy, though club icon Jamie Carragher suggests Slot might have merely one week to rescue his position, beginning with Sunday's clash against West Ham United.
One criticism directed at Slot concerns his unwillingness to modify his tactical system. The 4-3-3 setup that delivered such success last campaign has proven defensively fragile this term, yet the manager emphasized he won't be implementing major alterations.
"Are you asking: 'Should I make drastic changes?'" Slot addressed his pre-match media briefing. "I'm unsure of your thinking, but if, for instance, you're suggesting another formation with five at the back ... that presents a problem. I don't possess five defenders.
"Our current system best fits our players' abilities. They've likely utilized this formation throughout their entire careers, and we have minimal training opportunities. Therefore, it's nearly impossible to completely overhaul our football philosophy when we compete every other day. I believe we've employed numerous different starting elevens for reasons I'd rather avoid, as not everyone has been fit. We've consistently rotated our entire roster."
Nuno: Dismissal Pressure Part of the Role
As Slot battles to regain Liverpool supporters' confidence, he'll lead his team to London Stadium to meet West Ham United and a manager familiar with Premier League management pressures, Nuno Espírito Santo.
Nuno prepares for his eighth match as West Ham's manager, having been dismissed by Nottingham Forest earlier this campaign. The manner of his Forest exit, occurring just three matches after guiding the club through their finest recent season, surprised many observers. When questioned whether Slot might become the next accomplished manager to lose his position following a Sunday defeat, Nuno offered his perspective.
"Questions constantly surround every Premier League manager globally, generated by media outlets," Nuno replied. "It's simply part of our profession.
"I'll greet Arne before kickoff as usual. However, my concentration remains on myself, my squad, and securing our desired outcome."