Slot Bids Farewell to Liverpool in Open Letter: An honor to work with you, we never stopped fighting

Slot wrote an open letter after his departure, published in the Liverpool Echo, bidding farewell to Liverpool and its fans.

Slot left after two years in charge of Liverpool, having masterminded the club's 20th league title.

The Dutch coach was relieved of his duties last weekend after a disappointing second season on Merseyside, with the Reds only securing fifth place and Champions League qualification on the final day of the season.

But his first season at Liverpool will be the most iconic chapter of his tenure. Last season, Liverpool won the league title a month early and with a 10-point lead.

May 25 last year was a famous day for the club, as fans in attendance were able to celebrate the league title at Anfield for the first time in 35 years.

The next day, a championship parade with an estimated one million participants was held throughout the city. A generation of fans was finally able to cherish one of the greatest days in their history of following Liverpool Football Club.

In July last year, Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva tragically died in a car accident in Spain. Slot subsequently led the club through a period of mourning with great dignity and grace.

As he prepared to depart, Slot wrote directly to the fans and the city, publishing an open letter in the Liverpool Echo reflecting on his time at Anfield.

Slot's open letter

"When you emerge from the famous plaque in the Anfield players' tunnel, you feel a mix of complex emotions.

"Of course, there is a sense of responsibility, given the club's great history.

"Naturally, there is also anticipation to honor this legacy, a legacy that has made Liverpool one of the biggest clubs in world football for 134 years.

"And determination: to compete, to win, and to bring success to the globally renowned Anfield fans.

"All these emotions converged into a Premier League trophy just 12 months later, and the feeling was incredibly special. It was not just a trophy, but a reward for the hard work, sacrifice, and dedication of many people throughout the club.

"It became even more meaningful because you were able to enjoy it with us. You sang our songs, cheered for goals, and were there on the day we lifted the trophy. You filled the streets outside the stadium, filling Anfield with anticipation.

"In 2020, you missed out on so many of these moments, so I always knew how important it was for you to be involved. Seeing hundreds of thousands of you take to the streets of Liverpool for the championship celebration only strengthened that belief.

"What happened later that day was shocking, and my heart remains with all those affected. I had the privilege of witnessing your compassion and spirit of unity firsthand. This spirit has helped this city through difficult times, and I hope it will also help achieve the justice and accountability that many have called for over the years.

"The pain of losing Diogo just weeks after our shared celebration is indescribable. Most importantly, I want to remember a teammate, a friend, and an incredible person. Every time he wore the famous crest of this club, he touched the lives of thousands.

"In one of the most challenging moments this club has faced, the love, compassion, and support shown by the Liverpool family were extraordinary. As I leave this club, I must say that the way you honored Diogo and stood together in his name will forever remain in my memory.

"The bond we share transcends football, European nights under the Anfield lights, and the singing of 'You'll Never Walk Alone' from the Kop.

"You made me feel welcome from the start and helped me on this journey. This is something I will cherish.

"Of course, it's important to say thank you.

"Thank you to the players who proudly wear the crest and represent this club around the world. Thank you to the staff, not just those on the training pitch, but everyone behind the scenes, whether maintaining the pitch at Anfield or working in the training ground canteen.

"Thank you to the club's hierarchy and owners for their trust and guidance. Thank you to the legends who supported me and helped me deeply understand the importance of 'the Liverpool Way.'

"It has been a privilege to work with all of you.

"Liverpool's 20th league title belongs to all of us, and it will continue to be an important chapter in the club's history. We should all be proud of this.

"This club will always measure itself by the most important honors. And so it should.

"But I also leave knowing that the club is where it belongs: among the European elite. Securing Champions League qualification is an important responsibility, ensuring that Liverpool can continue to compete at the highest level next season and beyond.

"I am confident about the future. The players who have given so much to this club, upheld its values, and created many unforgettable moments, have laid a foundation that can be continued.

"At the same time, a new generation of players is emerging, ready to write their own stories and take on the responsibility that comes with wearing this shirt.

"Change is part of football, but I know that this club will continue to make its people proud.

"When I first stood under that plaque in the Anfield players' tunnel, I knew what this club demanded. As I leave, I also know that we never stopped fighting for it."