Milos Kerkez has told how Liverpool players were stunned to learn of Arne Slot's dismissal, saying the news reached members of the squad late on 30 May and came as a complete surprise.
Players caught off guard
The Serbia international, who established himself at left-back after joining from Bournemouth, described being woken by his brother while back in his homeland and discovering the manager had been relieved of his duties. Kerkez played a prominent role last season, making 34 league appearances as Liverpool's campaign unravelled and the club slipped to fifth place, finishing 25 points behind champions Arsenal.
“I was surprised [Slot was sacked], I really didn’t know. I was back in Serbia, I was sleeping and my brother woke me up… I couldn’t believe it, I was like: ‘wow!’”
He confirmed there has been limited contact with Slot since the departure, saying the pair have exchanged a few messages.
Looking ahead under Iraola
Kerkez was candid about the need for improvement. He acknowledged the season was difficult, saying the form shown was not acceptable at a club used to competing for silverware, and urged higher standards as Andoni Iraola begins his tenure as head coach.
- Kerkez: left-back, 34 league appearances last season
- Liverpool finished fifth in the Premier League, 25 points adrift of champions
- Andy Robertson has since left the club, signing for Tottenham
While Kerkez avoided an extended assessment of Slot's tenure, his remarks underline the unsettled mood following a season that fell well short of expectations. The club's recruitment and pre-season preparations will be scrutinised as Iraola seeks to steady the ship.
Local impact and what fans should watch
Supporters will be watching several indicators as the new campaign approaches: the fitness and availability of full-back options, summer signings, and whether the squad responds quickly to Iraola's methods. The left-back position appears settled in the short term with Kerkez starting regularly last season, but departures and new arrivals elsewhere may change the dynamic.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Season finish | 5th place |
| Points behind champions | 25 |
| Kerkez league appearances | 34 |
Kerkez's account offers a window into the squad's reaction to rapid change at the club. With limited public communication from many players, those comments help shape an understanding of morale at Anfield as preparations for the new season continue.
