Liverpool went crashing out of the FA Cup at the weekend as another trophy passed them by, but if FSG’s history says anything, then victory wouldn’t have changed their view on Arne Slot
Arne Slot watched on as Liverpool were outclassed by Man City(Image: James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images)
Liverpool’s FA Cup humiliation on Saturday means that Arne Slot can only claim the Champions League this term – but success in a domestic cup would likely have little bearing on his future if history tells us anything.
Owners FSG have taken a dim view on success in cup competitions previously, especially if all they did was cover for poor Premier League form. They place their greatest importance on qualifying for the Champions League, which could prove defining in Slot’s future.
Liverpool’s poor midseason form meant they all but surrendered their title hopes by the end of 2025 and they were dumped out of the Carabao Cup relatively early. Losing 4-0 at Manchester City was a blow this weekend, not least because the Reds were outclassed.
But with Slot’s future beyond this summer far from guaranteed, a loss in the FA Cup would likely have meant little change to the hierarchy’s long-term plans. Back in 2012 Kenny Dalglish was in charge and claimed the Carabao Cup and reached the FA Cup final, all whilst finishing eighth in the league.
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Back then FSG chief John W Henry made it clear that, FA Cup or no FA Cup, it became apparent across the course of the season that a change in the dugout was needed and Dalglish was given his marching orders.
He said at the time: “The FA Cup would not have made any difference had he won it. I think it was obvious to every Liverpool fan that something was wrong and something needed to be done.”
According to the Athletic, FSG’s attitude towards the domestic cups remains largely the same and landing the revenue that comes from the Champions League trumps a domestic trophy. Slot’s focus will need to be on landing a spot in the top five, which would see them remain at Europe’s top table. As things stand Liverpool are fifth, a point ahead of sixth place Chelsea and three points clear of Brentford and Everton.
Liverpool’s owners FSG are likely to assess Arne Slot’s future, especially if they missed out on the Champions League(Image: Getty Images)
Despite claiming the title in his debut year Slot is by no means assured of a job, especially if he leads Liverpool to the Europa League, and not the Champions League. Earlier this season Jamie Carragher claimed the Dutchman could have no complaints if he missed out and was sacked.
He said on Sky Sports: “Not making the Champions League as champions, spending £450million and having the highest wage bill in the Premier League – which is the biggest determining factor normally about where you finish in the league – I think you have serious questions to ask.”
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