Arne Slot has declared that Pep Guardiola does not need anyone's sympathy, even as the Manchester City manager endures the worst run of his managerial career, following a 2-0 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield.

Liverpool’s victory marked City’s sixth loss in their last seven matches, leaving them fifth in the Premier League table and 11 points adrift of their Merseyside rivals. It also extended City’s losing streak in the league to four consecutive matches.

However, Liverpool head coach Slot cautioned against dismissing Guardiola’s abilities, pointing to the Spaniard’s extensive trophy collection as a testament to his resilience.

"You feel sympathy or empathy for managers who are in a really bad position," Slot said. "Those who have lost many matches or are battling at the bottom of the league. But Pep has achieved so much, and he has demonstrated time and again that the league is not decided in November or December.

"No one needs to feel sympathy or empathy for Pep. He has won so many titles and has the capability to turn things around for City."

Guardiola himself downplayed the taunts from Liverpool supporters, who chanted "sacked in the morning" after Mohamed Salah scored Liverpool’s second goal. In response, Guardiola raised six fingers, symbolising his six Premier League titles, and addressed the situation with characteristic wit.

"I’m incredibly proud of my six Premier League titles, earned against this team and others before them," Guardiola said. "I didn’t expect Anfield to start chanting at 0-2 that I’d be sacked.

"Maybe I deserve to be sacked. Given our current results, perhaps I’m only still here because I’ve won six Premier Leagues and many other trophies.

"I just didn’t expect it at 0-2 – maybe at 0-1 when it was still close, or perhaps last season or the season before. But at Anfield, it’s fine. It’s part of the game. When you win, you laugh. When you lose, you laugh as well."

Despite Manchester City’s struggles, Guardiola’s history of success underlines his ability to recover from setbacks. Slot’s comments serve as a reminder of Guardiola’s enduring reputation as one of football’s greatest managers, even during challenging periods.