“Not fit for purpose” – Arne Slot slammed after Liverpool’s defeat to Man United

The second-half adjustment brought fleeting hope, with two quick goals restoring parity. Yet even that period raised concerns. Matchett pointed out that Liverpool’s goals came from opposition errors rather than crafted play: “If those mistakes don’t happen, I don’t know where we’re scoring from.”

There is a growing sense that the tactical blueprint lacks adaptability. Matchett again stressed the regression: “We were better at the start of the season than we are now.” That decline is particularly alarming given the expectations attached to a title-winning squad.

Hendrick echoed those frustrations, focusing on individual utilisation: “You’re taking our £116 million playmaker and making him a shuttle runner.” For a side built on technical quality, such deployment raises serious questions about optimisation and clarity of roles.

Fan frustration and shifting expectations

The reaction from supporters has been shaped not only by results but by a perceived disconnect between ambition and execution. Trev Downey captured the mood succinctly, describing the match as “like watching two bald lads fighting over a comb.”

Downey also addressed the broader narrative surrounding patience and club culture. “There’s a smug sanctimony about people who enjoy the idea of the Liverpool way,” he said, challenging the notion that continuity should come at the expense of competitiveness.

The bigger concern lies ahead. Downey warned, “We’re staring down the barrel of another season where we begin it with this lad,” adding that the prospect is “probably the most flattening thing about all of this.” His conclusion was stark: “The idea of rolling into next season like this is dark.”

Hendrick reinforced the emotional disconnect between team and supporters, stating, “Effort is the bare minimum, and we don’t even get that.” That sentiment reflects a deeper issue than tactics alone. It speaks to intensity, accountability and standards.

Uncertain outlook for next season

Liverpool’s defeat to Man Utd has become a microcosm of their campaign. Moments of promise are undermined by structural fragility and questionable decision-making. The conversation has shifted from short-term fixes to long-term direction.

Matchett summed up the scepticism surrounding any optimistic spin: “When I hear people say the margins are small, I don’t believe you.” It is a pointed reminder that performances, not narratives, define progress.

Downey, meanwhile, framed the emotional toll of the season: “This season is a write-off.” That perspective is increasingly difficult to dispute given the inconsistency and lack of identity on display.

Hendrick’s final assessment perhaps carries the most weight in terms of future implications: “This man is simply not fit for purpose.” Whether that view reflects internal thinking remains to be seen, but externally it is gaining traction.

As Liverpool look ahead, the challenge is not merely to improve results but to restore belief. The defeat at Old Trafford has amplified doubts about Slot’s tenure, and unless there is a decisive shift, those doubts may define the narrative heading into next season.