Arne Slot’s position at Liverpool was never solely dependent on the FA Cup. However, the manner of Liverpool’s 4-0 defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-final has raised concerns about his future at the club.
FSG’s Perspective on Domestic Cups
Fenway Sports Group’s (FSG) attitude towards domestic cups has remained consistent. Qualifying for the Champions League is prioritised due to the revenue it generates. Winning the FA Cup would not have saved Arne Slot’s job this summer, just as exiting the competition at the quarter-final stage will not seriously influence how his bosses at FSG view this season.
John W Henry stated back in 2012 that winning the FA Cup would not have changed the decision to sack Kenny Dalglish, highlighting that something was wrong and something needed to be done. This indicates a long-standing view within FSG that focuses more on overall performance and Champions League qualification.
Humiliating Defeat Against Man City
The 4-0 defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium has caused alarm. After a bright start, Liverpool capitulated. They conceded four goals in a 20-minute spell either side of half-time.
The scoreline could have been worse, but Manchester City eased off. Slot’s Liverpool appear brittle. Instead of responding positively to adversity, they wilt.
Mentality Concerns Within the Team
The “mentality monsters” of Jurgen Klopp’s era now resemble “mentality minnows”. The body language is poor, with too many players feeling sorry for themselves. They aren’t taking responsibility.
Dominik Szoboszlai lamented the lack of “fighting spirit”. What was most galling about the damaging spell in the match when Liverpool fell to pieces was the inability to do even the basics.
Slot said that he sees runs not being followed, crosses not being blocked, and duels not being won. He noted that every time they forgot to block a cross or follow a runner, it resulted in a goal. He also stated that in the first 35 minutes, there was a lot to like from his team.
Key Moments in the Match
- The rot set in after Virgil van Dijk’s rash challenge on Nico O’Reilly.
- Erling Haaland scored from the penalty spot.
- Florian Wirtz failed to track Antoine Semenyo in the build-up.
Liverpool’s performance against Manchester City has raised serious questions about the team’s current state and Arne Slot’s ability to turn things around.