Liverpool\u2019s hierarchy continues to publicly back Arne Slot, but TEAMtalk can reveal that serious internal discussions over the Dutchman\u2019s future are now expected in the coming weeks amid mounting concern behind the scenes at Anfield.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s been a season of struggle for Liverpool<\/a>, who have failed to defend their Premier League crown with any distinction and who could yet be usurped in the race for a top-five finish. Trophyless and seemingly without an identity, the pressure has been on Slot<\/a> for most of the season.<\/p>\n While Slot had been expected to get the green light to carry on into next season, some concerning results and performances in recent weeks could yet lead to a rethink and with media noise around Slot\u2019s suitability to lead a revival sparking growing concern.<\/p>\n One issue that has particularly reverberated around the club\u2019s American ownership group in Boston has been Mohamed Salah\u2019s recent public comments regarding Liverpool\u2019s current direction and performances.<\/p>\n In light of that comment \u2013 labelled a grenade by Gary Neville \u2013 has seen his post liked by 17 Liverpool stars, past and present<\/a>.<\/p>\n Sources indicate Salah\u2019s remarks have triggered significant reflection internally, with senior figures understanding why the Egyptian voiced his frustrations after a hugely disappointing campaign.<\/p>\n TEAMtalk understands Fenway Sports Group are increasingly alarmed not only by Liverpool\u2019s results but also by the broader atmosphere surrounding the squad and project heading into the summer.<\/p>\n Although FSG are not directly micro-managing the football operation, football chiefs Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes are understood to be continuously assessing the situation and discussing possible future scenarios.<\/p>\n The Reds\u2019 title defence has unravelled dramatically this season, and pressure is intensifying on Slot following a campaign that will end without silverware.<\/p>\n Liverpool\u2019s defeat tally has become a major source of concern internally. The club\u2019s 19 losses across all competitions this season already represent their joint-highest total of the century, and they could equal an unwanted modern-era record if they lose their final game of the campaign.<\/p>\n Only once since Liverpool returned to the top flight in 1962 have they suffered 20 defeats in a season \u2013 a mark set during the difficult 1992\/93 campaign.<\/p>\n While Liverpool have consistently maintained publicly that a full review would take place only after the season concludes, TEAMtalk understands concern within the club has escalated sharply during the closing weeks of the season\u2026<\/p>\n DON\u2019T MISS<\/strong>: Arne Slot sack talk blows up as Gerrard reacts to Salah\u2019s \u2018damning\u2019 statement on Liverpool struggles<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n Liverpool frustrations could yet lead to Arne Slot sack \u2013 Sources<\/strong><\/p>\n The fact Liverpool ultimately missed out on Xabi Alonso \u2013 who has now finalised his move to Chelsea \u2013 has only added to frustration among sections of the fanbase and internally raised further questions about long-term planning.<\/p>\n TEAMtalk insider Graeme Bailey<\/a> has revealed the latest emerging from within the corridors of power at Anfield.<\/p>\n \u201cEdwards and Hughes have some serious thinking and talking to do,\u201d Bailey explained.<\/p>\n \u201cThe situation with Slot is escalating at a pace, and I can tell you not everyone internally is aligned behind the idea that he should definitely stay.<\/p>\n \u201cLiverpool are not a club that reacts emotionally or impulsively, but the ownership absolutely recognise this is becoming a very concerning situation.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m told Salah\u2019s comments hit home in a massive way. Internally, there\u2019s actually a lot of sympathy towards what he said, and people at the club understand why he voiced those frustrations.\u201d<\/p>\n Next Liverpool manager: Four names under discussion<\/strong><\/p>\n Despite Alonso now being unavailable, TEAMtalk understands several alternative managerial names continue to be discussed behind the scenes should Liverpool eventually decide a change is necessary.<\/p>\n \u201cSebastian Hoeness is hugely respected because of the work he\u2019s done at Stuttgart,\u201d Bailey added.<\/p>\n \u201cJulian Nagelsmann remains admired, while Matthias Jaissle is another coach Liverpool have looked at \u2013 especially given the growing appreciation for his tactical approach.<\/p>\n \u201cBut one name that repeatedly comes up is Andoni Iraola.<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s potentially available, he plays an aggressive high-intensity style that fits Liverpool\u2019s football identity, and crucially, he already understands the Premier League.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd people shouldn\u2019t underestimate the Richard Hughes connection either. Hughes was instrumental in bringing Iraola to Bournemouth, and there remains huge respect there.\u201d<\/p>\n For now, Liverpool continue to insist Slot remains their manager and no final decisions have been made.<\/p>\n However, TEAMtalk understands the end-of-season review at Anfield is shaping up to be one of the most significant internal assessments the club have conducted in years, with the pressure around Slot growing rapidly heading into a pivotal summer.<\/p>\n It\u2019s not just in the boardroom that Slot has lost, with several pundits now speaking out against him.<\/p>\n These comments from Jermaine Pennant, in particular, were especially damning<\/a>.<\/p>\n Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher, though, have offered differing views, with the former explaining why he deserves to stay<\/a>.<\/p>\n However, those in the media are also speculating on a change, with James Pearce among those to suggest the project under Slot is failing and the \u2018clamour to sack the Dutchman is growing louder\u2019<\/a>.<\/p>\n