Following Liverpool’s disappointing 3-2 defeat to Fulham at Craven Cottage, the spotlight has shifted from the result to the management of one of the club’s brightest young talents. Former England international Joe Cole did not hold back in his post-match analysis, aiming sharp criticism at Liverpool manager Arne Slot for his handling of the promising starlet.
Cole, speaking with visible frustration after the match, made a bold comparison that raised eyebrows: “He’s better than Jude Bellingham and Camavinga. The only reason he’s not performing at their level is due to poor management. Slot has let the lad down. If he had been given more minutes on the pitch, he could’ve changed the outcome of this game.”
The remarks came after the young player was introduced from the bench and immediately made a significant impact. His presence brought much-needed stability, creativity, and drive to a Liverpool side that had lacked rhythm and urgency throughout most of the contest. Despite a spirited late push, Liverpool couldn’t claw back the deficit, with Fulham’s Rodrigo Muniz and Andreas Pereira doing enough to secure all three points for the home side.
Cole’s pointed comments struck a chord not just with pundits but also with the fans. Social media was awash with similar sentiments, as many questioned the manager’s decision to keep such a talent on the sidelines. One fan on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “One of the most talented players at the club is rotting on the bench. Why wasn’t he in the starting XI?”
The general feeling among supporters was one of growing frustration—not only at the result but at what they perceive as a continued mishandling of a player who could play a key role in Liverpool’s future. His brief appearance underscored just how much he could offer when given the opportunity, leaving many to wonder what the outcome might have been had he started.
As these criticisms gather momentum, Arne Slot now faces increasing scrutiny over his team selections and man-management approach. With Liverpool fighting to stay competitive in the Premier League and fans growing restless, the pressure is mounting for Slot to act decisively. If he continues to overlook a player so widely regarded as a future star, the Reds may not only continue to drop crucial points — they might also risk alienating and eventually losing one of the most gifted prospects they’ve developed in recent years.
The question now is whether Slot will heed the warnings and adapt, or if his stubbornness will cost Liverpool dearly in the long run.
