Liverpool’s coach reacts strongly to Rooney’s comments

Arne Slot responds to Wayne Rooney after being criticized for lacking “aura,” asserting that victories are the true measure of worth and that Liverpool still has the capacity to compete for a Champions League spot.

Coach Arne Slot has openly replied to the unfavorable judgment from legend Wayne Rooney, following the former Man Utd striker’s claim that the Dutch manager “lacks the aura” to lead Liverpool.

The 2024-25 season saw Slot lead Liverpool to a convincing Premier League title, finishing 10 points clear of the runner-up. However, in the second season, The Kop’s form declined, losing the chance to defend their crown and struggling fiercely in the race for a Champions League berth amid tough competition from chasing teams.

On The Overlap show, Rooney stated that despite winning recently, Slot has not yet established the “aura” of his predecessor Jurgen Klopp. According to the former England star, Klopp’s huge shadow makes it hard for any successor, and he does not sense any special charisma in Slot.

In reply, the Dutch tactician remained calm but sharp: “We are different. The only thing Jurgen and I share is that both of us have won such a league title, which isn’t bad, right? I believe a coach who wins more naturally gains more ‘aura.’”

Slot also questioned whether Rooney’s view reflects the majority: “If that were the common opinion, then maybe last season people would say I had more ‘aura’ than this season. But perhaps it’s just Wayne who thinks so, I don’t know.”

While acknowledging Klopp’s unique magnetism, Slot emphasized that success is the key factor: “Jurgen definitely has his own aura. But a winning coach will also have an aura.”

As the fight for a top-four finish intensifies, Liverpool still retains chances in both the Champions League and FA Cup. However, Slot’s most urgent task now is to secure a Champions League spot for next season — the most concrete measure of the “aura” he is being questioned about.