Liverpool’s season has taken another sharp downturn, and manager Arne Slot did little to hide his frustration. Speaking after a new wave of disappointing results, Slot described the club’s collapse in form as “ridiculous” and “unbelievable”, adding that he feels personally guilty for the dramatic slump that has pushed the team far below expectations.

Liverpool entered the season with optimism under their new manager, but after a strong opening month, performances have cratered. The club has dropped crucial Premier League points, European results have been inconsistent, and key players have struggled to sustain rhythm or confidence. Slot’s comments reflect both internal pressure and growing unrest among supporters who expected Liverpool to remain competitive in the title race.

Slot said the team’s collective regression has been “difficult to explain”, especially considering the tactical clarity and high-intensity structure he hoped to implement. Injuries have disrupted selection patterns, but the manager made clear that they do not fully justify the situation. Instead, he focused on shortcomings in execution, mentality and leadership during critical moments in matches

Player performances have fluctuated sharply. Senior figures such as Virgil van Dijk, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alisson Becker have had isolated strong games, but the squad as a whole has lacked consistency. Midfield cohesion remains a particular concern, with Liverpool often losing control in transitions and failing to progress the ball with their usual structure. Slot has experimented with rotations, including changes to the double pivot and advanced midfield roles, yet none of the combinations has delivered sustained stability.

Attacking output has also dipped. Liverpool have created fewer high-quality chances compared to previous seasons, and reliance on individual bursts rather than coordinated buildup has made them easier to defend against. Slot referenced the drop-off indirectly, noting that Liverpool’s identity “has gone missing in phases”, a sentiment echoed by analysts across England.

Supporters have grown increasingly vocal online and in post-match atmospheres, but Slot insisted he remains committed to reversing the slump, saying he feels a sense of personal responsibility for the team’s state. He emphasised that accountability starts with him and that the coaching staff must do more to prepare and refocus the squad. The manager also suggested that players need to rediscover discipline and intensity in both pressing and second-ball duels, areas that historically defined Liverpool’s competitive edge.

From a tactical standpoint, Slot has attempted to evolve the team beyond the late-Jürgen Klopp model. The blend of controlled possession, structured pressing triggers and flexible movement in wide areas has shown glimpses of promise. However, execution has been inconsistent, especially against deep defensive blocks or aggressive mid-block setups that disrupt Liverpool’s rhythm. Opponents have increasingly targeted Liverpool’s defensive transitions, exploiting gaps when fullbacks push high and the midfield fails to cover.

Analysts argue that Slot’s system may eventually stabilise but requires specific player profiles in certain positions, particularly in midfield. Recruitment decisions from previous seasons have left structural gaps that the current squad has struggled to paper over. Liverpool’s technical board and sporting leadership face difficult decisions in the January window to support Slot’s plans and re-align the team’s long-term direction.

Despite the slump, Slot rejected the notion that the dressing room has fractured. He described the squad as “united but honest”, acknowledging that tough conversations have taken place among players and coaches. Senior players have reportedly taken more active roles in leadership meetings, a move intended to reinforce internal standards and address complacency.

Liverpool’s upcoming fixtures will be pivotal. A demanding month includes key league matches and decisive European ties that could shape the remainder of the season. Slot said the team has “no choice but to respond”, adding that Liverpool’s expectations as a global club require immediate improvement, not gradual correction.

For Liverpool supporters, the frustrations are familiar yet unexpected under a new manager widely praised for his tactical intelligence and calm leadership. Slot’s willingness to take responsibility may ease some pressure in the short term, but results will ultimately determine how long the goodwill lasts.

A full turnaround is possible, but Liverpool must rediscover consistency, intensity and belief. Slot knows the stakes. In his own words, the slump is “unbelievable”, but the responsibility to fix it “starts with me.”