Wayne Rooney has cast doubt over whether Arne Slot possesses the commanding presence required to manage Liverpool FC, though he has also described ongoing dismissal rumours as “crazy” given the Dutchman’s recent success. Less than a year after delivering a Premier League title, Slot now finds himself facing scrutiny as speculation grows over his long-term future at Anfield.
Slot enjoyed a remarkable debut season after stepping into the role previously held by Jurgen Klopp. Taking over from a hugely charismatic figure was never going to be simple, yet the Dutch coach guided Liverpool to domestic glory despite operating with limited transfer funds during his first campaign.
Title triumph followed by a major investment
After securing the league crown, Liverpool’s hierarchy loosened the purse strings during a record-breaking 2025 transfer window. High-profile additions such as Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak arrived at Anfield in deals that surpassed nine-figure sums, signalling strong backing for Slot’s project.
However, the 2025-26 campaign has proven far more challenging. Liverpool currently sits sixth in the Premier League standings, trailing leaders Arsenal FC by 16 points. That drop-off has sparked debate about whether another managerial shift could occur in the summer of 2026.
The discussion has intensified amid reports linking former Reds midfielder Xabi Alonso, recently dismissed by Real Madrid CF, with a possible return to Merseyside. Meanwhile, Klopp has been mentioned as a potential return to management should the right opportunity arise.
Rooney questions Slot’s “aura”
Speaking on The Overlap Fan Debate from Sky Bet, Rooney acknowledged that evaluating Slot so soon after a title-winning campaign feels harsh. Nevertheless, he suggested that the Liverpool manager may lack the intangible qualities required to inspire at the highest level.
Rooney explained that while he has met Slot on a few occasions and views him as personable, he is unsure whether the Dutchman commands the same authority associated with Liverpool’s previous leadership. He noted that following Klopp’s tenure, the task becomes even more demanding, as comparisons are inevitable.
The former Manchester United striker went further, suggesting that failure to secure a top-five finish could place Slot’s job in serious jeopardy. Rooney admitted that such talk seems extreme given Slot’s recent triumph, yet he believes expectations at Liverpool remain unforgiving.
Assessing Liverpool’s struggles
Rooney also attempted to identify why Liverpool has struggled to replicate last season’s form. He pointed to dips in performance from key figures such as Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, both of whom have been central to the club’s recent success.
In addition, injuries and departures have disrupted the squad’s rhythm. Trent Alexander-Arnold has been absent, Andy Robertson has featured less frequently, and Luis Diaz has departed. The ongoing situation involving Diogo Jota has also impacted squad stability. Rooney noted that even Darwin Nunez, despite inconsistency, provided energy and unpredictability that the team now misses.
He described the current phase as a transitional period, suggesting that the cumulative loss of influential players has made it difficult for Liverpool to sustain title-winning standards.
Respect for established stars
Although Rooney has been openly critical of Van Dijk at times this season, he remains firm in his admiration for both the Dutch defender and Salah. He argued that any decline in pace or sharpness should not overshadow their achievements or status within the modern game.
Rooney emphasised that Salah ranks among the Premier League’s greatest players, while Van Dijk stands out as one of the finest centre-backs of his generation. In his view, Liverpool’s collective challenges cannot be placed solely on the shoulders of its two senior leaders.
Crucial fixtures ahead
Despite domestic inconsistency, Liverpool remains active in multiple competitions. They have reached the last 16 of the Champions League and the fifth round of the FA Cup, offering Slot opportunities to shift the narrative.
Next up is a league trip to Nottingham Forest, followed by encounters against fellow Premier League sides battling near the bottom, including West Ham United, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Tottenham Hotspur. A positive run through that sequence could provide much-needed momentum as the season approaches its decisive phase.
For now, debate continues over Slot’s future, with Rooney’s comments adding fuel to an already lively discussion surrounding Liverpool’s direction.
