Slot has ‘Every reason to believe we’ll start to win football games again’ | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Fourth Straight Defeat Raises Questions for Slot Amid Mounting Pressure

Arne Slot’s early tenure at Liverpool has entered its most testing spell yet, following a 2-1 defeat to Manchester United at Anfield — the club’s fourth consecutive loss across all competitions. Despite another dominant performance in possession and chance creation, the outcome left supporters anxious and analysts dissecting familiar issues in both attack and defence.

Slow Starts and Set-Piece Struggles

Slot was quick to acknowledge that Liverpool’s downfall began early. Conceding within two minutes, through Bryan Mbeumo’s strike, left his side chasing the game once more. Against a well-drilled United side content to sit deep and counter, Liverpool’s expansive style struggled to yield the decisive end product.

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“We can’t afford to fall behind so early,” Slot reflected. “It gives the opposition belief and changes the rhythm of the match.”

Yet, it was not just the opening goal that frustrated him. Another concession from a set-piece — Harry Maguire’s winning header — highlighted a recurring weakness. Liverpool’s defensive record from dead-ball situations has become a growing concern, especially as they’ve been forced to field increasingly attacking line-ups in search of goals.

In his assessment, Slot admitted that while the attacking intent was evident, the defensive structure often suffered as a result. “We had six or seven offensive players on the pitch after the hour mark,” he noted. “That risk means we’re more vulnerable at the back.”

Missed Chances and Small Margins

If Liverpool’s defensive frailties are one side of the story, their misfiring attack tells the other. Cody Gakpo’s equaliser offered hope, but several gilt-edged opportunities — including efforts that struck the woodwork — went begging.

Slot insisted that his side’s underlying performances remain strong despite the results. “If you look at the chances we create, it’s difficult to believe we’ve lost these games,” he said. “But football is decided in both boxes, and right now, we’re not finishing enough of what we create.”

It’s a familiar refrain for managers seeking balance between optimism and accountability. While Liverpool’s underlying data suggests progress, their conversion rate — especially in big moments — has cost them dearly.

Mental Resilience and Managerial Challenges

Slot was also asked whether confidence within the squad is waning after four straight defeats. The Dutchman was firm in his belief that the team’s spirit remains intact.

“As a manager, challenges never stop,” he explained. “You face pressure when you start, when you move to a bigger club, and when you follow someone like Jürgen Klopp. Losing four in a row is another challenge, but I still see a group that believes.”

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He acknowledged the mental strain of repeated setbacks but praised his players’ attitude in response. Those coming off the bench, he noted, continued to inject energy and support their teammates — a sign of collective commitment rather than division.

Salah’s Form and Liverpool’s Next Step

Naturally, questions turned to Mohamed Salah, whose form has dipped in tandem with the team’s recent struggles. Slot, however, was quick to deflect individual scrutiny.

“It’s not the time to talk about individuals,” he said. “As a team, we’re creating chances — Mo included — but we need to convert them. We’re a fair, honest side that keeps pushing.”

That honesty may soon need to yield results. Liverpool’s schedule allows little time for reflection, with another fixture looming just two days later. The challenge for Slot now is to transform promising phases into points — and to restore belief among players and supporters alike.

While Liverpool remain among the Premier League’s most creative sides in open play, their wastefulness in front of goal and vulnerability at set-pieces have become defining features of this poor run. For a club accustomed to competing at the highest level, small margins are no longer a comfort; they’re a warning.