Ferguson experienced similar scrutiny throughout his remarkable 27-year reign at Old Trafford. Despite retiring in 2013 as perhaps Britain’s finest ever manager, even the legendary Scot faced intense criticism at various points during his tenure.
When David Moyes took over from Ferguson, the challenge proved insurmountable, with his fellow countryman dismissed after just 11 months. Following this swift departure, Ferguson advocated strongly for clubs to demonstrate faith in their managers, even during difficult periods.
Speaking in 2015, Ferguson stated: “There’s no evidence that sacking a manager gives you success. But there is evidence at Manchester United, at Nottingham Forest, at Arsenal that [if] you retain the manager for long periods, you get consistency and you get success.”
Arsene Wenger, Ferguson’s former adversary who led Arsenal for nearly 22 years, ushered the Gunners into the modern era. The Frenchman’s tenure saw him lift three Premier League titles and seven FA Cups, but arguably his most significant contribution was embedding a unique culture and style at the club that only longevity can foster.
Ferguson also made reference to Nottingham Forest and Brian Clough’s impressive 18-year reign. It was under Clough’s stewardship that the club clinched consecutive European Cups, enjoying a particularly golden era in the late 1970s.
Liverpool’s owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), demonstrated their knack for making astute appointments when they chose Slot as Jurgen Klopp’s successor last season. However, the initial euphoria has been somewhat dampened by a challenging few months.
That said, while Manchester United have shown a tendency for frequent managerial changes, Liverpool are traditionally more patient. Slot is the seventh manager to take the reins at Liverpool this century, compared to six at United since Ferguson’s departure just 12 years ago.
Moreover, Slot’s remarkable achievements in his inaugural season, including being in contention for a quadruple, should buy him some time. It’s easy to overlook that Liverpool kicked off the season in spectacular fashion, winning their first seven matches of the campaign.
With that in mind, it might not require many adjustments before the Liverpool of recent memory is back on track. And Ferguson’s own legacy serves as evidence that a small amount of trust can have a significant impact.
