Sympathy for Slot after eighth league defeat of season
Michael Owen has defended Liverpool manager Arne Slot following the team’s 2-1 defeat to Manchester City on Sunday. This result marked the eighth league loss of the campaign and handed City only their second win at Anfield since 2003. The late goals from City turned the game and left Liverpool in sixth place five points behind Manchester United in fourth. Owen who scored 158 goals for Liverpool between 1996 and 2004 admits he feels sympathy for Slot’s current situation. He believes the Dutch coach deserves time if he can guide the team to Champions League qualification next season likely through a top-five finish in the Premier League.
Top-five finish should guarantee Slot’s future at Anfield
Owen stated clearly that securing a top-five position would make Slot’s job completely safe. He compared the situation to long rebuilds at Arsenal after Arsene Wenger and at Manchester United in recent years. He pointed out that if Slot wins the Premier League in his first season and finishes fifth in the second most fans would view that as a strong return especially after Jurgen Klopp’s long tenure. Owen noted that every Liverpool supporter would accept such results beforehand. However the contrast of dominating the title last season and struggling now creates extra pressure. If Liverpool miss out on the top five the situation would become precarious and questions would grow. Qualification for the Champions League should remove any doubt and allow Slot to navigate this transitional phase.
Key factors behind drop-off and praise for new signings
Owen highlighted structural reasons for the dip in form. For years Liverpool relied on Andy Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold as arguably the best full-back pairing in world football. Injuries or absences mean a natural drop-off regardless of replacements. On the wings Luis Diaz was exceptional last season but wanted to leave opening space for Cody Gakpo who scores goals but represents change. Mohamed Salah remains a key figure yet his output numbers and performances have declined noticeably this season. Owen stressed these four corners of the pitch have weakened before even considering recruitment challenges. He praised incoming players Florian Wirtz who needs time to settle but possesses undeniable quality and Hugo Ekitike whom he sees as a future top striker with exciting potential. Overall Owen views the signings positively and believes the current issues stem more from unavoidable transitions than managerial shortcomings.
