Toughest season I’ve had as manager ‘by a mile’ – Slot

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has described the current campaign as the most difficult season of his managerial career, admitting that the team is not meeting the standards expected at the club.

Speaking after Liverpool’s defeat to Manchester City on Sunday, Slot said the challenges of the season are unlike anything he has faced before. The loss leaves the reigning Premier League champions sixth in the table, four points behind fifth-placed Chelsea.

Liverpool are level on points with Brentford in seventh place and were fortunate not to drop below them on goal difference after Manchester City’s late third goal was ruled out.

Slot took over from Jurgen Klopp in June 2024 and enjoyed immediate success, guiding the Reds to a record-equalling 20th league title in his debut season. However, the current campaign has proven far more demanding.

Reflecting on the situation, Slot admitted that losing matches back-to-back is something he is not used to, adding that even draws now feel like defeats. He noted that the players are fully aware of what it means to represent Liverpool and share his disappointment over recent performances.