Liverpool fan and UFC star Paddy Pimblett has delivered a characteristically forthright verdict on the challenging start to the season for manager Arne Slot and his team.
Pimblett's Blunt Assessment of Slot's Struggles
The beloved Scouse fighter did not hold back in his analysis, referencing specific low points in the campaign. Liverpool have lost six of their opening 14 Premier League games, leaving them a significant 11 points adrift of leaders Arsenal. This slump comes despite the club investing heavily last summer, spending over £446 million on marquee signings like Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz, and Milos Kerkez.
Pimblett highlighted the recent 3-0 home defeat to Nottingham Forest and a loss at Anfield to Dutch side PSV as particularly shocking results. "I thought he might have gotten shafted after PSV pumped us," Pimblett told Coin Poker. "Getting beat at Anfield by a Dutch team, that's unheard of."
Big-Money Signings Failing to Deliver
The club's major recruits have so far failed to justify their price tags. Swedish striker Alexander Isak, a British record £125 million signing from Newcastle, has managed just one Premier League goal. Similarly, German playmaker Florian Wirtz is yet to find the net since his high-profile move from Bayer Leverkusen.
This poor form continued earlier this week with a disappointing home draw against newly-promoted Sunderland, piling more pressure on Slot. The 47-year-old Dutchman, who arrived from Feyenoord, is facing his first real test since taking the reins.
Looking Ahead: Leeds Clash and UFC Return
Despite the criticism, Pimblett retains a sliver of optimism, pinning his hopes on Arsenal dropping points. "Hopefully Arsenal will just keep dropping points. As long as Arsenal don't win the league, I'm happy," he stated.
Slot's side travel to face Leeds United at Elland Road on Saturday, desperate for a victory to kickstart their faltering title defence. For Pimblett, however, his immediate focus is shifting to the octagon. The 'Baddy' is scheduled to fight Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title at UFC 324 on January 24 in Las Vegas. He had hoped for a rematch with champion Ilia Topuria, but will have to wait after the titleholder confirmed a break from competition for personal reasons.
As the Reds seek momentum on the pitch, their famous fan prepares for his own high-stakes battle in the new year, with the fortunes of both firmly in the spotlight.
