Arne Slat impatient with Liverpool stars' brilliance at World Cup? Exit to coach after 2025–26
FSG sacked Arne Slott after Liverpool finished fifth in the 2025–26 season. Injuries and disappointing form have been criticized. But in World Cup 2026 Gakpo (3 goal contributions in 2 matches) and Mac Allister (93.9% pass accuracy, 5 tackles, 10 defensive contributions) are adding color to the countries. The duo's lackluster performances at the club have seen the pair shine in the national teams, a nagging 'why not now?'
Liverpool coach Arne Slott was sacked immediately after the 2025–26 season. Fenway Sports Group (FSG) made the decision after a disappointing end to the season, despite only bringing in one of the staff members from the Feyenoord era. Despite more than £400 million of investment and restructuring efforts, the team remained in fifth place in the Premier League. Although injuries have taken their toll, many believe that a team of Liverpool's caliber should have the quality to get through.
Many players did not reach the expected level at the club level. Apart from Dominic Saboslais, Rio Ngumoha and Hugo Ekitike, the rest looked bland during this period. In particular, Cody Gakpo and Alexis Mack Allister have been criticized for their below-par performances in a Liverpool jersey. Gakpo mainly cut inside and attempted shots but poor finishing meant goals were rare. Mac Allister also failed to make an impact in midfield.
However, soon after the start of World Cup 2026, a huge change in the form of these two was evident. Gakpo played two matches for the Netherlands and contributed three goals. Mac Alistair has been a powerful presence on both sides with 93.9% pass accuracy, 5 tackles and 10 defensive contributions for Argentina. Although these are only a few stats, their aggressiveness in the national teams is evident.
Because of this conflicting scenario, it is natural that it is painful for Slott. It is debated whether a similar level of impact at key stages of the club season would have improved the team's results and even saved the slot job. The systems and roles may be different in the club as compared to the national teams. However, analysts say quality players should excel in any system.
From Liverpool's point of view, this increase in form in the World Cup will give the market value an opportunity to improve. However, while that is good news for the club, the 'why not?' question remains unanswered in Slott's eyes. All in all, the ups and downs of Liverpool's season, then the brilliance of the teams' stars on the world stage—one can't help but notice the gulf between the two.