Van Slot responds to Liverpool dismissal, insists club is still a European powerhouse

Former Liverpool manager Arne Slot has spoken out for the first time since his dismissal, asserting that he is leaving the club in its rightful place among Europe's top teams.

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Slot's comments come in the wake of his sacking by Liverpool, which occurred despite his achievement of leading the team to a Premier League title in his inaugural season as manager.

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The decision to let Slot go was made after a disappointing 2025-26 season, during which the Reds finished fifth, trailing champions Arsenal by 25 points, although they did manage to secure a spot in the UEFA Champions League for the upcoming season.

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In a heartfelt farewell letter published by the Liverpool Echo and quoted by BBC Sport, Slot expressed his gratitude to the supporters for their unwavering backing throughout his two-year tenure at Anfield and voiced his optimism regarding the club's future prospects.

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Slot wrote, "I leave with complete confidence in what lies ahead," and emphasized that the foundations laid by the players will endure, having upheld the club's values and created numerous unforgettable moments.

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The 47-year-old coach also underscored the significance of securing Champions League football, deeming it a crucial responsibility that guarantees Liverpool's continued competition at the highest level in the seasons to come.

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Slot stated, "Securing Champions League football was an important responsibility and one that ensures Liverpool can continue competing at the highest level next season and beyond," and reflected on his time at the club, saying, "When I first stood beneath that sign in the Anfield tunnel, I knew what this club demanded."

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Slot, who took over from Jurgen Klopp in 2024, made an immediate impact by guiding Liverpool to a record-equalling 20th English league title, a triumph he described as a defining experience of his tenure.

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He shared his fond memories of the moment, saying, "It was made even more meaningful because you got to enjoy it with us, singing our songs, cheering the goals," and noted that the title belongs to everyone associated with the club.

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Slot also paid tribute to the late Diogo Jota, who tragically died in a car accident alongside his brother Andre Silva last summer, describing the event as "indescribable" and praising the compassion shown by Liverpool supporters during that difficult period.

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The Dutchman highlighted the unity displayed by the club's fanbase as a testament to the strong bond between Liverpool and its people, one that extends far beyond the realm of football.

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Liverpool is expected to initiate formal discussions with former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola as the club seeks to find a suitable successor ahead of the new season.