Internal conflict at Liverpool is beginning to flare after Arne Slot clashed with management over team policy, particularly regarding the promotion of youth players to the first team amid concerning on-field results.
On 6 Jan 2026 GMT+7, tensions inside Anfield are intensifying after Anfield Watch, a media outlet reporting on Liverpool, revealed that manager Arne Slot is caught in a major conflict with the club's management, especially with key sporting director Richard Hughes, to the point it is seen as a "civil war" within the club.
Although Slot led Liverpool to an unbeaten run of nine matches before this week's trip to Arsenal, the playing performances have been unimpressive. Draws against Fulham, Leeds United (twice), and Sunderland were considered disappointing, while most wins were hard-fought.
Insiders say Liverpool's attacking style under Slot lacks clarity. While the defense appears more solid, it has come at a clear cost to offensive effectiveness, prompting fans to question the team's direction.
However, the problems at Anfield extend beyond the pitch. Management has a clear vision that the head coach must align with the club’s structure, especially in promoting academy players to the first team.
Last summer, Hughes and the recruitment team wanted Rio Ngumoh and Trey Nyoni to get more chances after impressive preseason displays. Ngumoh contributed to five goals in five matches, and under Jürgen Klopp, such form typically led to first-team opportunities.
But Slot held a different view. He wanted to loan out Ngumoh following the sale of Luis Diaz and pushed for the club to pursue Bradley Barcola or Malik Fofana instead, leading to a fierce verbal clash with Hughes, who insisted Slot utilize the existing young talents.
Since then, the relationship between Slot and management has severely deteriorated, with the Dutch coach barely using Ngumoh despite repeated reminders from executives.
Reports also say management tried to involve Slot more with the academy, including joint training sessions with the U21 team and youth showcases, but Slot did not attend, with some senior team coaches participating in his place.
Hughes and Michael Edwards believe Liverpool’s head coach must develop young players alongside achieving on-field success, as the club’s policy heavily depends on nurturing and increasing the value of academy players.
Given the underwhelming results and escalating internal divisions, Arne Slot’s future at Anfield is considered precarious and may reach a critical decision point sooner than many expect.