Arne Slott was sacked by Liverpool on Saturday. (Image: Getty)
Arne Slott has told his Liverpool successor he has the foundations to succeed at Anfield. The Dutch manager was sacked by the Reds on Saturday after two seasons in charge. Liverpool started their second season as Premier League champions, losing 20 in all competitions and only picking up 60 points. They still qualified for next year’s Champions League, but having spent over £450 million in the summer transfer window, a drop in performance levels and a fifth-place finish was deemed unacceptable.
But Slott is confident that Liverpool’s next manager, currently tipped to be Andoni Iraola, has a solid foundation to build on next season. The 47-year-old retires with 66 wins in 113 games and a winning percentage of 58.4. This is the fourth highest result in the club’s history, ahead of Bob Paisley and Bill Shankly. In a statement, the club’s owners said: “We have collectively come to the conclusion that changes are necessary for the club to continue moving forward. Once again, we must stress that this is not a decision taken lightly.”
“The conclusion we have reached is based on the belief that it is best to reorient the team’s trajectory. It does not diminish the work Arne has done here or our respect for him. Nor is it a reflection on his talent. Rather, it points to the need for a different approach.”
Despite his premature departure, Slott still had 12 months left on his contract and he wanted to express his gratitude to the Anfield fans. The outgoing head coach said, “I was happy.” Slott also emphasized that he believes the team he leaves behind has a bright future.
Slott wrote an emotional 688-word open letter to Liverpool fans, which was published in our sister publication the Liverpool Echo this morning.
You can read the full letter below…
Arne Slott leaves Liverpool as Premier League champions (Image: Getty)
Full text of Arne Slott’s open letter to Liverpool fans
Walking out from under that famous sign in the Anfield tunnel brings with it mixed emotions.
Of course there is responsibility. To the great history of this club.
Expectations, of course. We pay tribute to the 134-year tradition that has made Liverpool FC one of the greatest clubs in world football.
And determination. To compete. To win. To bring success to the world famous Anfield crowd.
It was even more special that all these emotions culminated in the Premier League title just 12 months later. It was more than just a trophy, it was also a reward for the hard work, sacrifice and dedication shown by many people across the club.
Having fun with everyone made it all the more meaningful. We will sing our songs and cheer for our goals. And you were there the day we hoisted the trophy. Anticipation fills Anfield as they line the streets outside the stadium.
2020 took a lot from you, but I never forgot how important it is for you to be a part of it all. That belief was reinforced by the sight of hundreds of thousands of people taking to the streets of Liverpool to celebrate the title.
The events that occurred on Water Street later that day were shocking and my thoughts are with all those affected. I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand your compassion and spirit of solidarity. It is the spirit that has sustained this city through difficult times, and I hope it will help realize the justice and accountability that so many have campaigned for for so many years.
Losing Diogo just a few weeks after we celebrated together is beyond words. Most of all, I want to remember my team-mates, my friends and the wonderful human beings who touched the lives of thousands of people every time they wore this club’s famous crest.
The love, care and support shown by the Liverpool family during one of the most difficult times this club has faced has been extraordinary. As I leave this club, it is incumbent on me not to say that the way you honored Diogo and united in his memory will forever remain in my heart.
The connection we share goes beyond football, beyond European nights under the Anfield lights and the sound of ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ being sung from the Kop.
You welcomed me from the beginning and helped me along my path. That’s what I value.
Of course, it is important to express your gratitude.
To the players who have represented this club around the world and worn the badge with pride. Not just the staff at the training ground, but also the behind-the-scenes staff who manage the Anfield pitch and work in the training ground canteen.
Trust and direction in the hierarchy and ownership of the club. To the legends who have supported me and impressed upon me the importance of the Liverpool Way.
It was a lot of fun working with everyone.
Liverpool’s 20th league title belongs to us all and it will remain an important chapter in Liverpool’s history. We should all be proud of that.
This club always evaluates itself with the highest accolades. That’s how it should be.
But I also left knowing that this club truly belongs among Europe’s elite. Securing Champions League football was an important responsibility and one that ensured Liverpool continued to compete at the highest level next season and beyond.
I leave with complete confidence in what lies ahead. Players who have made a huge contribution to this club, upheld its values and helped create many unforgettable moments have laid a lasting foundation.
At the same time, a new generation is emerging who are ready to write their own story and accept the responsibility that comes with wearing this shirt.
Change is part of football and I know this club will continue to make people proud.
When I first stood under that sign in the Anfield tunnel, I knew what this club was about. I left here knowing that we never stopped striving for it.
