Liverpool have confirmed the departure of head coach Arne Slot with immediate effect, bringing an abrupt end to his tenure at Anfield following a difficult second season in charge.

The Dutchman guided Liverpool to the Premier League title in his debut campaign — the club's 20th league championship — but was unable to sustain that level of performance. The club finished fifth in the 2025/26 season, a full 25 points behind champions Arsenal.

In an official statement, Liverpool said: "Liverpool FC can confirm Arne Slot is to depart his role as head coach with immediate effect and that the process to appoint a successor is under way."

The club paid tribute to Slot's contribution, acknowledging the considerable challenges he faced during his second season. "We would like to take this opportunity to place on record our appreciation for Arne, who will always hold a special place in the history of this football club as the coach who delivered Liverpool's 20th league title," the statement read.

Liverpool added that, despite the difficulty of the decision, leadership had "collectively come to the conclusion that change is necessary in order for the club to keep moving forward."

Who could replace Slot at Anfield?

The timing of the dismissal surprised many observers, as earlier reports had suggested Slot would be handed another season to turn results around. Liverpool are now actively seeking a replacement.

Andoni Iraola has emerged as a candidate after leaving AFC Bournemouth, where he had guided the Cherries into European competition. Iraola is currently without a club following his departure from the south-coast outfit.

The managerial market is unusually busy heading into the 2026/27 campaign. Manchester City are also searching for a new head coach after Pep Guardiola brought his decade-long reign at the Etihad Stadium to a close. Meanwhile, Chelsea and Manchester United will both start next season under new permanent managers — Xabi Alonso and Michael Carrick, respectively.