Liverpool fires manager Arne Slotte after disappointing season

Liverpool announced the immediate departure of Dutch manager Arne Slotte, who had guided the club to its 20th English league title in his first season but saw results tumble in his second, finishing fifth and missing all domestic trophies.

The club’s statement praised Slotte’s “large and successful” contribution but said the board concluded that a change was necessary to continue progress. Reports linked the decision to a dip in form, defensive frailties and a reported rift with star forward Mohamed Salah, whose social‑media criticism of the coach was cited as worsening squad tension.

Liverpool, which spent a record £450 million on new players last summer, confirmed that a search for a new manager is under way. Spanish coach Andoni Irola, who led Bournemouth to a European qualification spot, is seen as the frontrunner, while other names mentioned include Luis Enrique, Oliver Glasner, Sebastian Hannes and Steven Gerrard.