A former Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has issued an emotional farewell message to supporters following his departure from the club, insisting he leaves Anfield with the team still “among Europe’s elite”. The Dutchman was sacked on Saturday after just one season in charge following Liverpool’s fifth-place finish in the Premier League, despite winning the title in his debut campaign. In an open letter published in the Liverpool Echo, cited by PUNCH Online on Monday, Slot reflected on his time at the club and thanked fans for their support throughout his tenure. “I leave with complete confidence in what lies ahead. The players who have given so much to this club, who have upheld its values and helped create so many unforgettable moments, have built foundations that will endure,” Slot wrote. Slot, 47, guided Liverpool to their 20th league title in his first season, but the club endured a difficult follow-up campaign marked by inconsistency and heavy defeats in all competitions. Despite that, he highlighted the achievement of securing Champions League qualification as a key positive. “Securing Champions League football was an important responsibility and one that ensures Liverpool can continue competing at the highest level next season and beyond,” he said. The former Feyenoord boss also praised the connection he formed with supporters at Anfield and across the city. “When I first stood beneath that sign in the Anfield tunnel, I knew what this club demanded. “I leave knowing we never stopped striving for it,” he said. He added that the experience of winning the Premier League title with fans in attendance was one of the most meaningful moments of his career. “It was made even more meaningful because you got to enjoy it with us. “Singing our songs, cheering the goals. And on the day we lifted the trophy, you were there,” he averred. Slot also paid tribute to the unity shown by Liverpool supporters during difficult moments, including the passing of former forward Diogo Jota. “The love, compassion and support shown by the Liverpool family was extraordinary,” he said. “The connection we share goes beyond football.” He concluded his message by expressing pride in the club’s achievements and optimism for the future.
