"Slot" speaks frankly after Liverpool failed to beat Chelsea, shaking their top 5 hopes and pointing to two reasons for the draw.
On 9 May 2026, Arne Slot, Liverpool's manager, gave an interview after the English Premier League 2025-26 season's week 36 opening match, where Liverpool at home managed only a 1-1 draw with Chelsea.
Liverpool took the lead at 1-0 as early as the 6th minute through Ryan Gravenberch, but Chelsea equalized 1-1 in the 35th minute from a free kick by Enzo Fernandez, who delivered the ball to the far post where no one touched it.
This left Liverpool with just 1 additional point, totaling 59 points, still holding 4th place in the Premier League table but not yet guaranteed a top 5 finish. They need 3 more points in the last 2 matches to secure a UEFA Champions League spot.
Arne Slot addressed two reasons why Liverpool only drew with Chelsea: conceding an avoidable equalizing goal and his players failing to finish chances. "We started very well and had key chances from set pieces, almost making it 2-0," he said.
"Unfortunately, like last week, we conceded a goal from a set piece. It was a very poor goal. In the second half, I saw a different level of intensity."
"We nearly scored several times, as we have many times this season. We hit the post and crossbar. We couldn't control their players; they played with many midfielders today."
Regarding the Liverpool fans' boos after the game, Arne Slot responded, "That might be related to us not winning. It's understandable that people would be disappointed if Liverpool doesn't win."