Arne Slot's position at Liverpool has come under scrutiny following their recent 3-2 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford, but two Premier League legends believe the Dutchman deserves patience at Anfield.

The match saw Liverpool fight back from 2-0 down only to concede again in a chaotic second half, sparking debates about the team's direction under Slot. While the result was disappointing, pundits Alan Shearer and Micah Richards have urged calm, arguing that Slot should be given more time to implement his vision.

Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, host Gary Lineker asked whether Slot would still be Liverpool manager next season. Shearer, the former Newcastle and England striker, was unequivocal in his support. "I think so," he said. "Considering what he achieved last season—winning the league and being named Manager of the Year—despite the challenges Liverpool have faced this year, yeah, I'd stick with him."

Richards, the ex-Manchester City defender, agreed but voiced concerns about Liverpool's recruitment and performances. "The signings haven't worked out, have they? Isak's been injured, and Wirtz hasn't hit the levels we expected," he noted. Richards also questioned Jeremie Frimpong's tactical fit, describing Liverpool as "too slow," "too passive," and "too easy to play against."

These criticisms echo those of other pundits. Roy Keane claimed Liverpool looked "frightened to death" in the opening stages at Old Trafford, while Daniel Sturridge questioned whether the team has a clear identity under Slot. Richards highlighted the contrast with Jurgen Klopp's era, saying, "What you normally associate Liverpool with is aggression, being hard to beat, and work rate—and they're none of those things right now."

For Liverpool fans, the debate over Slot's future is just beginning, but as Shearer and Richards suggest, patience might be the key to turning things around. After all, great teams are built over time, not overnight.