Liverpool's current manager, Arne Slot, had the opportunity to take charge of Leeds United over a year before he accepted the prestigious role at Anfield, it has been revealed. The Dutch coach, who led the Reds to a Premier League title in his debut season, chose to remain in the Netherlands when the Yorkshire club came calling during a turbulent period in 2023.
The Elland Road Approach and Slot's Snub
In February 2023, Leeds United dismissed American coach Jesse Marsch after almost a year at the helm. The club's search for a successor led them to Arne Slot, who was then two years into a successful spell with Dutch giants Feyenoord. Despite the interest from the Premier League side, Slot publicly rejected the chance to move to Elland Road.
The 47-year-old was not the only managerial target to elude Leeds at that time. Carlos Corberan, then in charge of West Bromwich Albion, opted to sign a new contract with the Championship club. Meanwhile, a move for Andoni Iraola was blocked by his then-employers, Rayo Vallecano. Iraola now manages Bournemouth in the top flight.
Slot addressed the speculation at the time, calling Leeds's interest a "compliment" but firmly committing his future to Feyenoord. "It is true that I will stay with Feyenoord, I can say that with this one. That is clear, fans do not have to be afraid," he stated. He emphasised his project in Rotterdam, where the club was competing for honours on multiple fronts.
Leeds's Managerial Carousel and Farke's Steadying Hand
Following Slot's rejection, Leeds United's season descended into further instability. The club first appointed Under-21s manager Michael Skubala on an interim basis for two weeks, before turning to Spaniard Javi Gracia. Gracia's tenure lasted less than three months, yielding just three wins from twelve matches.
In a last-ditch attempt to avoid relegation, Leeds turned to experienced campaigner Sam Allardyce in early May. However, 'Big Sam' failed to secure a single victory in his four games in charge, and the club's fate was sealed with demotion to the Championship.
The club's fortunes stabilised upon their return to the second tier with the appointment of Daniel Farke in July 2023. The German manager successfully guided Leeds back to the Premier League at the first attempt and recently masterminded a significant 3-1 victory over Chelsea to end a four-match losing streak.
From Feyenoord Glory to Liverpool Pressure
Arne Slot's decision to stay at Feyenoord proved fruitful. He remained until the end of the 2023/24 season, after which he agreed to succeed the legendary Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool. His first campaign on Merseyside was a dream, clinching the Premier League title – the club's second in five years.
This success earned Slot significant backing in the transfer market, with the Dutchman overseeing a spend of around £450 million in the following summer. Major investments included the signings of Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak for a combined fee exceeding £225 million.
However, the current 2025/26 season has presented a stark contrast. Liverpool's performances have dramatically dipped, with six league defeats already putting considerable pressure on Slot. His position is now under scrutiny just months after delivering the ultimate domestic prize, highlighting the volatile nature of top-flight football management.
