Anfield Watch
·21 May 2026
In partnership with
Yahoo sportsAnfield Watch
·21 May 2026
There's a perfect manager to replace Arne Slot at Liverpool.
Liverpool’s season under Arne Slot has descended into a deeply disappointing campaign, and there is still a risk that matters could worsen before the final whistle of the season.
After a damaging defeat to Aston Villa, the Reds head into the last game of the campaign knowing that only a win over Brentford at Anfield will guarantee qualification for next season’s Champions League.
In previous years, such a scenario would have felt routine for a club of Liverpool’s size and reputation. This season, however, has been far from ordinary. What initially appeared to be a promising new era under the Dutchman has instead unravelled into one of the club’s most difficult seasons in recent memory.
Liverpool have already suffered 20 defeats across all competitions, an alarming total that underlines the dramatic decline in standards and consistency. Given the scale of their struggles, the fact they remain in contention for a Champions League place is surprising in itself.
Much of the criticism has naturally focused on Slot.
His tactical decisions, in-game management and inability to stabilise performances during difficult periods have all come under scrutiny. While injuries and inconsistent form among players have contributed to the problems, many supporters believe the manager has failed to maximise the squad’s potential.
With pressure continuing to grow, speculation surrounding Slot’s future is intensifying, and calls for change from sections of the fanbase are becoming increasingly louder.
For a club with Liverpool’s history and expectations, the standard of performances this season has fallen well below what supporters demand, and there is a growing sense that the team is drifting further away from the elite level it once set for itself.
The reaction to Mohamed Salah’s recent social media activity has only intensified concerns surrounding the atmosphere behind the scenes.
The response from several teammates who 'liked the post' appeared to hint at unrest within the dressing room, particularly as Salah’s comments were widely interpreted as subtle criticism of Arne Slot and the current direction of the club.
Liverpool’s hopes of salvaging something from the campaign have arguably been aided by the inconsistent standard across the Premier League this season. Despite their struggles, the club still has an opportunity to secure the bare minimum requirement of Champions League qualification.
Looking ahead, many supporters believe significant change is needed if Liverpool are to return to competing at the highest level. The club requires a manager capable of handling elite players, implementing an aggressive and modern tactical identity, and restoring the intense, high-energy football that once defined the team.
Critics argue that Slot has so far failed to demonstrate those qualities consistently. Liverpool’s identity under previous success was built on relentless pressing, intensity and attacking football that connected strongly with supporters at Anfield. Many fans now feel the club needs a coach capable of reviving that philosophy and bringing “heavy metal football” back once again.
And who could restore this heavy metal style of football better than the best pressing manager in Europe right now?
Andoni Iraola at Bournemouth has worked wonders. He has instilled this high-intensity pressing game that has been a joy to watch and has reaped a lot of rewards.
Despite losing his best players in the summer, he has now achieved Bournemouth's best ever finish in the Premier League and could yet qualify for the Champions League with Europa League already guaranteed next season.
Looking around his achievements. How he has been able to bounce back from set-backs, Iraola just seems like the perfect fit.
On paper, he makes a lot of sense. But in theory as well.
Richard Hughes worked really well in tandem with Iraola at Bournemouth and so if Slot was to go, he makes the most sense to be the manager on his way to Anfield.
Especially, when you consider the fact that he is a free agent - his contract has expired at Bournemouth and he is onto bigger and better things.







































