Liverpool manager Arne Slot has broken his silence on the swirling speculation about his future at Anfield, delivering a clear message to fans and critics alike: he expects to be leading the Reds into next season.

Slot's position has come under intense scrutiny after Liverpool's disappointing title defense, a far cry from last season's dominant Premier League triumph. The Reds are still fighting for Champions League qualification, needing three points from their final two matches—away at Aston Villa on Friday and at home to Brentford on the final weekend.

The rumor mill has been churning with one name in particular: former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso. Since his dismissal from Real Madrid in January after just six months in charge, Alonso has been consistently linked with a return to Anfield as Slot's successor.

But Slot isn't fazed. "I don't think I am deciding that alone by myself, but I have every reason to believe I am the Liverpool manager next season," he stated firmly. "First of all, I am contracted to this club, and second of all from all the talks we are having. That is my take on it."

The Dutch manager acknowledged the criticism that comes with a down season, especially when compared to last year's historic campaign. "If you compare it with last season, this has definitely not been a great season, so it is normal that criticism comes. We have all had our share—the players, the manager, and other people in the club. That is how things work nowadays if you don't win the league."

With preparations for next season already underway, it seems Slot is digging in for the long haul at Liverpool—rumors of Alonso's arrival notwithstanding. The next two games will be crucial not just for Champions League hopes, but for silencing the doubters once and for all.