The Athletic FC Podcast Ask Ornstein: Is Slot's job safe?
10 snips
Jan 27, 2026 
David Ornstein, senior football correspondent known for transfer-market scoops. James Pearce, Liverpool reporter with on-the-ground insight. Tim Spiers, football journalist who adds stats and tactical context. They debate Liverpool’s recruitment failures, injury and depth issues, Van Dijk and Salah form, Arne Slot’s standing, FSG’s long-term plans and summer transfer targets.
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Summer Spending Didn't Solve Core Weaknesses
- Liverpool's summer spending masked a shallow net spend and left the squad thin in key areas despite big gross outlays.
- David Ornstein highlights central defence and attacking depth as priority surgery areas for next summer.
Title Defence Collapsed Statistically
- Liverpool's league form has collapsed compared with last season, losing a huge points gap in the title race.
- Tim Spiers describes statistical decline and warns tougher fixtures will intensify pressure on Arne Slott.
Established Stars, Not Just New Signings, Are Fading
- Key Liverpool stars who were influential last season have dropped form and that decline matters more than the new signings.
- James Pearce and others point to Salah, Gravenberch, Gakpo and Canaté as underperforming contributors.