Liverpool's slump — nine defeats in 12 matches, capped by a 4-1 home loss to PSV — has intensified pressure on Arne Slot and put Zinedine Zidane back into discussion as a replacement. For bettors this raises two clear opportunities: increased odds on a managerial change and favourable short-term markets on Liverpool as underdogs, while a potential Zidane appointment could trigger a “new manager bounce” to back in futures and match markets.
Liverpool slump deepens after 4-1 home defeat to PSV
Liverpool suffered a damaging 4-1 loss to PSV Eindhoven, their ninth defeat in 12 matches and a continuation of a slide that began after last season’s title triumph. The result followed a 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest at Anfield and has transformed what once looked like a minor wobble into a full-blown crisis for the reigning champions.
Arne Slot under growing scrutiny
Manager Arne Slot faces mounting criticism as calls for immediate improvement grow louder. Slot acknowledged the shock of the run and said it was natural for people to form opinions when defeats pile up, insisting the situation is “very, very, very unexpected” given the quality at his disposal. The club now confronts the uncomfortable reality of deciding whether to back Slot through a recovery or make a swift change.
Zidane touted as a top-tier option
Zinedine Zidane’s name has resurfaced as a potential remedy. Out of the game since leaving Real Madrid four years ago, Zidane’s record — including three consecutive Champions League titles — keeps him prominent in managerial conversations. Many view his ability to manage elite personalities and navigate big occasions as ideal for a high-pressure environment like Liverpool.
Klopp endorsement and tactical reputation
Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has previously praised Zidane’s tactical and man-management qualities, arguing that Zidane’s achievements at Real Madrid were far from accidental. That backing reinforces the narrative that Zidane has the profile to step into a top club role and quickly stabilise a dressing room in flux.
Complications: France role and language considerations
Potential obstacles remain. Zidane has been linked with the France job should Didier Deschamps depart after the World Cup, and he has previously said he picks roles where he believes the conditions to win are right — including language and broader infrastructure. That caveat means Zidane’s openness to a mid-season switch to the Premier League is uncertain.
What this means for punters
Punters should expect volatility: markets will likely shorten on “manager sacked” and “next Liverpool manager” outcomes, while short-term match odds may favour underdogs as Liverpool’s form dips. If Zidane’s name gains momentum, anticipate a market move toward a “new-manager bounce” in futures and match markets; conversely, continued poor results will push longer-term title and top-four markets wider for Liverpool.
Arne Slot sack verdict reached as Liverpool's miserable season hits new low after PSV
Outlook
Liverpool must decide quickly whether to back Slot through a recovery or pursue a high-profile replacement. With Zidane available and credible, at least on paper, the club faces a pivotal choice that will shape the remainder of the season both on the field and in betting markets.
Liverpool boss Arne Slot is under pressure after a 4-1 defeat to PSV Eindhoven, with the Reds losing nine of their last 12 games.
Express