You might expect Arne Slot’s Liverpool to be clear favourites to defend their Premier League crown after dominating the league in his first season. But the reality is far from that. The Reds have now fallen to nine defeats in their last 12 matches in all competitions, a disastrous run that has plunged them into the bottom half of the table.
Although reports claim Slot’s job is not immediately under threat, that hasn’t stopped major Liverpool figures — including Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard — from sharing their thoughts. Here’s what Carragher, Gerrard, Steve McManaman, Stephen Warnock and Danny Murphy have all said about the current situation.
Danny Murphy
Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy believes it’s premature to conclude that Slot is not the right fit. Speaking on talkSPORT ahead of Liverpool’s 4–1 defeat to PSV, he said:
“Let’s hope we don’t need to have that discussion.”
Murphy acknowledged that Liverpool face a defining period, with crucial matches against West Ham and Sunderland approaching.
“I like Slot — meeting him, you can tell he’s got something. He’s intelligent, personable… but none of that matters if Liverpool keep losing. It’s a massive week for him.”
Despite Slot’s strong reputation, he has been tactically outclassed by managers with far weaker teams, and with Liverpool’s current form, victories over West Ham or Sunderland are anything but guaranteed.
Jamie Carragher
Jamie Carragher, never hesitant to speak his mind, highlighted Liverpool’s long-standing commitment to managerial stability. Speaking on CBS Sports, he said:
“Liverpool isn’t a club that sacks managers. They don’t operate like many top clubs in Europe where the manager is king. Liverpool have never sacked a title-winning manager.”
Carragher expressed disbelief that some supporters were already questioning Slot’s job after the defeat to Nottingham Forest:
“I’ve always believed you back the manager. I’m furious with the players.”
Stephen Warnock
Former defender Stephen Warnock — who made 67 appearances for Liverpool — agreed with Carragher, arguing that dismissing Slot now would be a rash, emotional decision.
“I don’t think there should be any knee-jerk reaction,” he said, adding that something felt “off” even earlier in the season when results were good.
“It’s a very difficult time for Liverpool, but things didn’t feel quite right from the beginning.”
Steve McManaman
Steve McManaman also feels it’s far too early to consider replacing Slot. Speaking on TNT Sports, he said:
“It’s much too soon to sack him. Given what he’s done and the schedule he’s faced, he’s earned time.”
He pointed out that Liverpool are technically still in the Champions League — however slim their survival hopes — which should delay any talk of a managerial change.
“With the fixtures they’ve had and the fact they’re still in Europe, it’s too early for that discussion. You’d need to see them eliminated and stuck near the bottom before it’s even fair to ask.”
Steven Gerrard
Club legend Steven Gerrard, speaking alongside McManaman, offered a perspective shaped by his own managerial background.
“That’s football today. I’ve been there. If the results aren’t coming, big questions will follow — that’s part of the job at the highest level.”
Gerrard remains hopeful that Slot can turn things around:
“The good moments under Slot will arrive. We’ve been through tough periods before. I’ve experienced both sides — things will change.”
