Liverpool players expressed surprise following the sudden dismissal of manager Arne Slot last weekend. The 47-year-old Dutch coach was relieved of his duties after an end-of-season review concluded that his style of play no longer aligned with the club’s direction. Slot’s departure came in the wake of Liverpool’s faltering defense of their Premier League title and a season marked by 19 losses across all competitions.

Despite a series of disappointing results that led to growing fan dissatisfaction, Slot had maintained the backing of the club’s owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), until the decision to part ways was made. Forward Cody Gakpo, 27, described the termination as unexpected and said he and his teammates were caught off guard by the move. “A shame that the manager has been sacked, especially so soon after the season where we had fought to qualify for the Champions League,” Gakpo said. “I don’t think anyone, any of the players saw it coming. Apart from that, many of our players at the club are also working towards the World Cup now. We have to put it to the side.”

Gakpo, like teammate Virgil van Dijk, confirmed he had maintained contact with Slot since his departure. “I sent him a message to thank him for the past two years and of course with the highlight of last season,” he added.

Meanwhile, Federico Chiesa has cast uncertainty over his future at Anfield after revealing plans to discuss his role next season with incoming head coach Andoni Iraola. The 28-year-old forward made just one Premier League start last season and suggested that if he does not secure regular playing time, he may look to move elsewhere. “I want to play and if I don’t find continuity in the Premier League I’ll need to find it elsewhere,” Chiesa said. He noted he will attend pre-season training in the United States before holding talks with the club and Iraola.

Chiesa also commented on his loyalty during a challenging period earlier this year. He recalled that despite interest from other clubs in January, Liverpool and Slot had insisted he remain to help the team during a crisis. “I understood the situation and stayed, keeping a smile on my face,” he said. “We’re still talking about Liverpool. Last year they allowed me to win the Premier League.”

Additionally, Chiesa revealed that teammate Curtis Jones, who is reportedly attracting attention from Inter Milan, had sought advice about playing in Italy. “I told him it’s great and the weather is better than in Liverpool which, other than that, is a special place,” he remarked. “Jones, technically, is a really good player. Inter would do well to think about signing him.”