Michael Owen believes that Champions League success is essential for Arne Slot to avoid facing difficulties at Liverpool this season, which has been disappointing.
Speculation about Slot’s future has arisen, with Xabi Alonso mentioned as a possible successor.
Many Liverpool supporters are dissatisfied with their manager for various reasons. Owen suggests that “it’s going to be the Champions League or FA Cup that gets him out of trouble this season.”
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Liverpool faced Wolves in the fifth round of the FA Cup on March 6, showcasing the mounting pressure on Slot this season.
Owen, who was a pundit for TNT Sports during the match, discussed the increasing strain on Slot’s role, stating that qualifying for the Champions League is a basic expectation. He emphasized that success in Europe or the FA Cup will define Slot’s season.
Owen remarked: “Of course, they’re not going to win the league. Is success qualifying for the Champions League?
“It may be a target now, but it shouldn’t be the main measure of success at the beginning of the season.”
“So, it’s going to be the Champions League or FA Cup that gets him out of trouble this season. He’s definitely under pressure.”
The Reds are set to return to Champions League play this Tuesday, where they are expected to defeat Galatasaray and secure a spot in the quarter-finals. If they succeed, they will face either PSG or Chelsea in the next round.