Paul Merson: “Liverpool Won’t Sack Arne Slot — But He’s Piling Pressure on Himself”

Arsenal legend and football pundit Paul Merson has dismissed speculation linking Liverpool manager Arne Slot with a possible sack, despite the Reds’ dismal run of form in recent weeks.

Slot has been facing increasing criticism following Liverpool’s six defeats in seven matches, including their 3–0 Carabao Cup exit to Crystal Palace at Anfield — a result that left fans frustrated and pundits questioning his team selections.

However, Merson believes the Dutchman is still secure in his position, largely due to his historic Premier League title triumph last season, which earned him significant goodwill among both supporters and the club’s hierarchy.

“Arne Slot will not be sacked soon, he will get time at Liverpool because he won the Premier League last season,” Merson told Sportskeeda.

“But with the team he picked during the Carabao Cup fourth-round loss to Crystal Palace, he has now put too much pressure on himself before the game against Aston Villa on Saturday. That team had no chance of winning against Palace.”

Liverpool, currently seventh in the Premier League and seven points adrift of leaders Arsenal, are now under immense pressure to respond when they face Aston Villa this weekend.

⚽ Opinion:

Paul Merson’s take might sound comforting to Liverpool fans — but beneath his reassurance lies a hard truth: Arne Slot is walking on thin ice.

Winning the Premier League in your debut season buys you time — but football is a “what have you done for me lately?” business. Liverpool’s recent slump isn’t just about bad luck; it’s about questionable tactical choices, shaky confidence, and perhaps, a manager still finding his rhythm in English football.

Slot’s decision to rotate heavily in the Carabao Cup loss against Crystal Palace may have been strategic, but it backfired spectacularly. Fans expect Liverpool — especially under a manager with a title-winning reputation — to compete on all fronts, not crash out meekly at home.

Still, Merson is right about one thing: Liverpool won’t rush into panic mode. The club has historically shown loyalty to managers who’ve delivered, and Slot has “credit in the bank.” But that credit can evaporate fast if results don’t turn.

The coming weeks will test Slot’s leadership more than any trophy ever could. Can he rally a demoralized squad, silence the critics, and prove that last season’s glory wasn’t a fluke?

If he does, this storm could become his defining moment. If he doesn’t, even Paul Merson’s faith might start to waver.