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Arne Slot says he is leaving <\/b>Liverpool<\/b><\/a> “exactly where it belongs: among Europe’s elite” after he was sacked as head coach on Saturday. <\/b><\/p>\n The Dutchman, 47, won the Premier League title in his first campaign but was dismissed by the club’s hierarchy after the Reds finished fifth in the league this season, 25 points behind champions Arsenal<\/a>.<\/p>\n Liverpool<\/a> will open formal talks<\/a> with former Bournemouth<\/a> manager Andoni Iraola this week over becoming their new head coach.<\/p>\n In an emotional open letter published in the Liverpool Echo, external<\/span><\/a>Slot said fans made him feel welcome from the start and helped him on his path. “That is something I cherish,” he added. <\/p>\n “I leave with complete confidence in what lies ahead. <\/p>\n “The players who have given so much to this club, who have upheld its values and helped create so many unforgettable moments, have built foundations that will endure.”<\/p>\n Despite suffering 20 defeats in all competitions, Slot secured Liverpool<\/a>‘s place in next season’s Champions League.<\/p>\n