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Arne Slot explains decision to reject Netherlands head coach role

Posted : 12 August 2026

Former Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has confirmed that he held discussions with the Dutch Football Association over becoming the Netherlands manager but ultimately decided not to pursue the position. The 47-year-old said his preference at this stage of his career is to return to club football.

Slot rejected suggestions that he abandoned negotiations because of disagreements over salary or the length of a potential contract. According to the Dutchman, discussions with the KNVB never progressed far enough for those issues to be addressed.

He explained that his conversations with the association were exploratory and helped him determine that taking charge of a national team was not the right move for him at this point. Slot said he would rather work with players every day on the training ground, something that is not possible to the same extent in international football.

The former Feyenoord coach also praised the way the KNVB handled the discussions and stressed that he has great respect for the Netherlands national team. While he has not closed the door on managing his country in the future, Slot believes club football currently offers him more opportunities.

Slot's decision follows his departure from Liverpool after the club endured a disappointing second season under his leadership. He had enjoyed a spectacular debut campaign, guiding Liverpool to their 20th league title, but the team's subsequent struggles ultimately brought his tenure to an end.

The Netherlands are searching for a replacement for Ronald Koeman, who left his position after the Dutch were eliminated by Morocco in a penalty shootout in the last 32 of the 2026 World Cup.

With Slot no longer in contention, reports indicate that former Portugal and Belgium manager Roberto Martinez has emerged as a candidate for the vacant position. Martinez has reportedly been in contact with the KNVB as the federation considers its options for the next national-team coach.

Slot, who won the Eredivisie with Feyenoord in 2023 before moving to Liverpool, remains open to the possibility of managing the Netherlands someday. However, he believes the timing is not right and intends to continue his career in the club game.

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