In the high-stakes world of modern football, rumors move faster than a counter-attack. While there have been swirling reports suggesting Liverpool’s Arne Slot is at a breaking point due to a “shocking conversation” with INEOS, it is crucial to separate the facts from the headlines.
Here is the current state of play regarding Arne Slot, INEOS, and the future of the Anfield hot seat as of February 2026.
The Origin of the Conflict: A Case of Mistaken Identity?
To understand the “INEOS conversation,” we first have to look at the geography of the Premier League. INEOS, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, owns a significant stake in Manchester United, not Liverpool. Arne Slot is currently the head coach of Liverpool FC, which is owned by Fenway Sports Group (FSG).
The reports circulating about Slot being “deeply upset” by INEOS are largely fueled by a mix-up of recent managerial drama:
* Manchester United’s Search: INEOS is currently hunting for a permanent successor after the sacking of Ruben Amorim in January 2024.
* Liverpool’s Transition: Arne Slot is navigating a difficult period at Anfield. After winning the Premier League title in his debut season (2024-25), the 2025-26 campaign has been a “grind,” with recent losses to Manchester United and Manchester City leaving the Reds fighting for a Top 4 spot.
The Real Tensions at Anfield
While the INEOS connection is factually misplaced, Slot is facing genuine pressure from his actual bosses at FSG. Reports indicate:
* Transfer Disagreements: Slot has openly expressed frustration regarding the potential sale of Curtis Jones and a lack of investment in the squad following a quiet summer.
* Contract Stalls: There is mounting speculation that negotiations over a contract extension for Slot have been put on ice until results improve.
* The “Identity” Crisis: After a 0-0 draw against Leeds and a late collapse against City, critics—and some sections of the FSG board—have reportedly questioned whether Slot’s “controlled” style has become too predictable.
“I’m Not Sure I Can Continue” – Did He Say It?
The quote attributed to Slot about being unable to continue is currently classified as unverified speculation or “clickbait” designed to capitalize on the chaos at both North West giants.
In recent press conferences, Slot has remained defiant rather than defeated. After the heartbreaking 2-1 loss to Manchester City on February 8, 2026, he stated:
> “We have to stick together… I prefer to see an attacking style, and we will not retreat into a low block.”
>
While he is clearly “angry” about internal transfer decisions, there is no official record of him threatening to resign over a conversation with a rival club’s ownership (INEOS).
What’s Next for Arne Slot?
The Dutchman is not in the clear yet. With Xabi Alonso and Luis Enrique frequently mentioned in the gossip columns, Slot’s tenure depends on the next few weeks of the 2026 season.
| Potential Outcome | Likelihood | Context |
|—|—|—|
| Stay at Liverpool | High | FSG traditionally prefers stability; Slot still has credit from last year’s title. |
| Sacked by FSG | Moderate | If Liverpool falls out of Champions League contention by March. |
| Move to Man Utd | Very Low | Given the rivalry and his current struggles, INEOS is looking toward Luis Enrique or Michael Carrick. |
The “shocking conversation” might be the stuff of tabloid dreams, but the pressure on Slot is very real. He isn’t fighting INEOS; he’s fighting to prove that his Liverpool revolution hasn’t run out of steam.
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