Steven Gerrard has admitted he is "gutted" by Liverpool's decision to part company with Arne Slot, despite acknowledging he was not shocked by the club's move.
Liverpool confirmed Slot's departure after a disappointing campaign, bringing an end to the Dutchman's reign just one year after he delivered the club's second Premier League title.
The decision has divided supporters, with many pointing to Slot's remarkable debut season after succeeding Jurgen Klopp, while others believe Liverpool's recent struggles justified a change in direction.
Gerrard made it clear where his sympathies lie.
Speaking to TNT Sports ahead of the Champions League final, the Liverpool legend praised the job Slot did at Anfield and expressed sadness over the club's decision.
"I'm not surprised," Gerrard said. "I'm gutted for Arne Slot because in his first year, he did an incredible job.
"Taking the reins from the great Jurgen Klopp, that was a tough task and big shoes to fill.
"I think he did it seamlessly. It's very difficult to win the Premier League, and I know that more than most."
Steven Gerrard has admitted he is "gutted" by Liverpool's decision to part company with Arne Slot, despite acknowledging he was not shocked by the club's move
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Arne Slot has paid the price for a difficult season at Liverpool
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Slot arrived at Liverpool under enormous pressure following Klopp's departure in 2024 and exceeded expectations during his first campaign by guiding the Reds to league glory.
However, a difficult second season ultimately convinced club chiefs that a fresh approach was required.
Attention has already turned to who could replace the former Feyenoord boss, with Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola emerging as one of the leading contenders.
Gerrard believes the Spaniard has the credentials to be considered for the role.
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Andoni Iraola worked with Richard Hughes at Bournemouth and could be reunited at Liverpool | GETTY"I think potentially yes," Gerrard said when asked whether Iraola would be a suitable appointment.
"He did a terrific job at Bournemouth, and his style would suit Liverpool.
"But let's not beat around the bush. Liverpool Football Club is an attractive job for a lot of elite managers around the world, so I don't think he'll be the only name on the table.
"Because of the link to Bournemouth and the guys who have come to Liverpool from that club in terms of board level, they will know him very well.
"There's other names out there that I'm sure would want that Liverpool job.
"It's a huge job in world football, but to answer your question, I think he should be in the conversation, yes."
Liverpool's hierarchy also issued a lengthy statement following Slot's departure, paying tribute to the Dutchman while explaining the reasoning behind the decision.
"That this was a difficult decision for us to make as a club goes without saying," the statement read.
Arne Slot won the Premier League title with Liverpool in 2025 | PA"The contribution Arne has made to Liverpool FC in the time that he has been with us has been significant, meaningful and – most importantly of all to supporters and ourselves – successful."
Club officials highlighted Slot's Premier League triumph, his leadership qualities and the manner in which he guided Liverpool through challenging circumstances during his time in charge.
The board also praised the compassion Slot showed following the death of Diogo Jota, describing his conduct during that period as a reflection of his character.
Despite those tributes, Liverpool ultimately concluded that a managerial change was necessary.
"At the same time, we have collectively come to the conclusion that change is necessary in order for the club to keep moving forward," the statement continued.
"Nevertheless, the conclusion we have come to is built on a belief that the team's trajectory is best addressed through a change of direction.
"That does not diminish the work Arne has done here, or the respect we have for him."