Arne Slot noted in his open letter that working with Liverpool’s players and staff had been a “pleasure.”
Arne Slot asserts he is leaving Liverpool “exactly where it belongs: among Europe’s elite,” following his dismissal as head coach on Saturday.
The Dutchman, 47, secured the Premier League title in his inaugural season but was relieved of his duties by the club’s leadership after the Reds concluded this season in fifth place, trailing champions Arsenal by 25 points.
Liverpool is set to commence formal discussions with former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola this week regarding the vacant head coach position.
In a heartfelt open letter published in the Liverpool Echo, external, Slot expressed that the fans made him feel welcome from the outset and aided him along his journey. “That is something I cherish,” he affirmed.
“I depart with unwavering confidence in what lies ahead.
“The players, who have contributed so significantly to this club, upholding its values and crafting countless unforgettable moments, have laid foundations that will endure.”
Despite incurring 20 defeats across all competitions, Slot successfully secured Liverpool‘s qualification for next season’s Champions League.
“Securing Champions League football was a vital responsibility, ensuring Liverpool can continue to compete at the highest level in the upcoming season and beyond,” he elaborated.
“Change is inherent in football, but I am confident that this club will persist in making its supporters proud.
“Upon first standing beneath that sign in the Anfield tunnel, I recognized the demands of this club. I depart knowing we consistently strived to meet them.”
Liverpool dismiss head coach Slot and approach Iraola
Slot’s dismissal concludes a notable decline
Slot succeeded Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool‘s manager in 2024, following the German’s departure after nine years in charge.
He enjoyed a promising start to his tenure, clinching the club’s 20th league title in front of the home crowd at Anfield with four games remaining.
“It was rendered even more significant by the fact that you shared in the experience,” Slot remarked. “Singing our songs, celebrating the goals. And on the day we lifted the trophy, you were present – lining the streets outside the stadium, filling Anfield with anticipation.”
“Having been deprived of much of that in 2020, I was acutely aware of how much it mattered that you were an integral part of it all.
“Witnessing you gather in your hundreds of thousands on the streets of Liverpool for the title celebrations only reinforced that sentiment.
“Liverpool‘s 20th league title belongs to us all, and it will remain a significant chapter in its history. We should all take pride in that.
“This club will invariably measure itself against the greatest accolades. As it should be.”
Liverpool celebrated their 20th league title with supporters at Anfield last year.
In his letter, Slot paid homage to the late Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, who tragically died in a car accident alongside his brother Andre Silva as the players prepared to return for pre-season training last summer.
The Dutchman described Jota’s passing as “indescribable” but added that “the love, compassion, and support shown by the Liverpool family were extraordinary.”
Slot stated: “As I depart this club, it would be remiss of me not to acknowledge that the way you honored Diogo and stood together in his memory will remain with me forever.”
“The connection we share extends beyond football, beyond European nights under the Anfield lights, or the sound of ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ resonating from The Kop.”
Slot also informed fans that he was “privileged to witness firsthand your spirit of compassion and unity” during the club’s trophy parade in May 2025, when Paul Doyle drove his car through the crowds on Water Street in the city center.
Doyle was sentenced to 21 years and six months in December for charges, including dangerous driving and causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent.
“It is a spirit that has carried this city through difficult moments before, and one that I hope will help bring the justice and accountability so many have campaigned for over many years,” he added.
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