Liverpool Return for Klopp Ruled Out as Club Stands by Under-Pressure Arne Slot
talkSPORT understands that speculation over Jürgen Klopp making a sensational return to Anfield is misplaced, with Liverpool continuing to back current manager Arne Slot.
The Dutchman endured another difficult night on Wednesday as Liverpool suffered a 4-1 defeat at home to PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League, marking their ninth loss in 12 games – the club’s worst run in over 70 years. Fans expressed their frustration, booing the team off at full-time following a third consecutive three-goal defeat.
Slot’s struggles have raised questions about his future, particularly after guiding the club to the Premier League title in his debut season and overseeing £450 million in new signings. The poor results have sparked early speculation about potential replacements, with Klopp’s name frequently mentioned. The former Liverpool boss, who won eight trophies during nine years at the club, is now Red Bull’s Head of Global Soccer and has remained out of coaching since stepping down in 2024.
Despite fan calls for Klopp to return – including on talkSPORT – chief football correspondent Alex Crook confirmed that Liverpool’s hierarchy continues to support Slot.
Crook said: “The information I have is that the Liverpool hierarchy are still behind Arne Slot. They knew this season would be challenging with a mix of factors, including integrating new players and dealing with the aftermath of Diogo Jota’s passing. There’s a group of players still grieving, and others adjusting to a changing squad environment. Slot’s work last season should not be forgotten; he led Liverpool to the league title through careful tactical adjustments.”
Crook stressed that while Slot is currently not under immediate threat, the coming fixtures are crucial. Liverpool face West Ham, Sunderland, and Leeds in a packed week, where results are vital. “Some difficult decisions may need to be made regarding senior players whose form has dipped, like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk,” Crook added.
As for Klopp, while talk of a return persists, the German coach has himself suggested that while a Liverpool comeback is theoretically possible, he is currently focused on his Red Bull project. On the Diary of a CEO podcast in October, he said: “If I had to make the decision today, I won’t coach again… I like what I am doing right now. Only if I focus 100 percent can I do it really well
