Manager’s Controversial Remarks Ignite Fan Backlash Following League Title Win

omidbasir- Slot has suggested that the team’s early elimination from European competition allowed them to redirect their focus and resources towards the domestic campaign, ultimately resulting in their record-equalling 20th English league title. Last year, the Reds faced Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League round of 16. After a thrilling two-legged tie that ended 1-1 on aggregate, Liverpool was eliminated 4-1 on penalties at Anfield. Despite the painful defeat, which Slot described as the “best game of football I’ve ever been involved in,” he now considers it a pivotal moment.

In a recent statement to reporters ahead of the Qarabag match, he said, “This may not be a popular opinion, but perhaps the reason we won the league last season is because we played Paris Saint-Germain. We had a week to prepare for league games after being knocked out of the Champions League.”

However, these comments have incited anger among fans for various reasons. Liverpool supporters took to social media to criticize their manager, including @tdavid22_, who posted on X: “We’ve been awful in the league since the PSG game; we won it because of our strong first half of the season.”

Another fan, @NeilLfc_5, expressed frustration, stating, “He’s openly admitting he can’t manage multiple competitions. How are people still defending this? He’s utterly embarrassing.” Meanwhile, @YNWA1980 expressed disappointment in Slot’s remarks, urging for his dismissal: “Didn’t we lead the league by 14 points? PSG, a low block, and two league titles in 30 years. Slot keeps repeating himself. Five wins since September. Time to go!”

The criticism continued, with @Fade_Cob2 quipping, “We already had a double-digit lead at that point. Get Alonso in already!” Another fan, @Samb37153, added, “We won the league because PSG beat us. His head’s gone.”

Liverpool’s significant summer spending of £446 million raised expectations for another title run. However, new signings like Alexander Isak (£125m), Florian Wirtz (£116m), and Hugo Ekitike (£79m) have shown mixed performances. Additionally, the situation surrounding star forward Mohamed Salah has become a major distraction. Despite signing a new contract in April 2025 that secures his future with the club until 2027, speculation regarding his status persists, fueled by reported interest from clubs in the Saudi Pro League and Salah’s remark about having “no relationship” with Slot.

While the league title defense may be faltering, there have been occasional signs of improved form in Europe. During Slot’s two years in charge at Anfield, the club has maintained a 76.5 percent win rate in the Champions League group stage, winning 13 out of 17 matches.