Liverpool’s owners have reportedly named Luis Enrique as their main managerial candidate should they decide to part ways with Arne Slott. The Dutchman, who led the Reds to Premier League glory in his debut season, is under immense pressure after a disappointing run of results with nine defeats in his last 12 games.
Slott insists there is still support from Liverpool’s owners, but they are reportedly preparing for the worst. According to the Mirror, they have named Enrique as their ideal long-term replacement. The Spaniard has worked wonders for PSG, leading them to their first Champions League win last season as part of their treble-winning campaign.
This is Enrique’s second treble in his managerial career, having achieved the same feat in 2015 when he was manager of Barcelona and also won the Champions League title.
In a surprising development, Liverpool could hand over the reins to Jurgen Klopp on a temporary basis if Slott is sacked.
Klopp, who currently serves as Red Bull’s global head of football, is likely to be asked to remain in charge until the end of the season, as Enrique is unlikely to leave PSG midway through the season.
Slott insists he has been in constant communication with senior management at the club during this difficult period, which hit record lows this week.
The Reds suffered a shock defeat to Nottingham Forest at Anfield on Saturday, followed by a crushing defeat to PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League on Wednesday.
Discussions have reportedly taken place among Liverpool bosses amid growing concerns that Slott is losing control of the dressing room.
He spent an astonishing £426m on new players in the summer transfer window, but has struggled to establish a winning formula or settle into a consistent starting XI.
Slott admits speculation about his position is inevitable given recent results, but believes the hierarchy at the club is backing him to turn the situation around.
His fate could depend on the club’s upcoming games against West Ham, Sunderland and Leeds.
“It would be great if we could come back and win, but if you’re working as a coach and things aren’t going well, it’s normal to have doubts,” the Dutchman said.
“When you lose too many times, people start talking about it. I have a lot of support from above. I’m fine with my position.
“They don’t call me every day to say they trust me, but I feel that trust in their everyday conversations.”
