Liverpool's head coach Arne Slot has shared his insights on Erik ten Hag's departure from Manchester United.
Ten Hag was released from his duties on Monday, after just over two years leading the team, due to an underwhelming start to the season, leaving United struggling in the league and winless in European competition.
Slot, who joined Liverpool this summer, contributed to Ten Hag's troubles by leading his team to a 3-0 victory against United at Old Trafford last month.
Despite the rivalry, Slot has expressed empathy for Ten Hag and believes his fellow Dutchman will make a comeback.
'Being Dutch makes this even more difficult for me, for us Dutch people,' Slot said during a press conference before Liverpool's Carabao Cup match against Brighton on Wednesday.
'Our initial thoughts are with the individual. We're all in this profession, so we understand the risks, but when it happens, especially to someone I know slightly and recognize the effort he puts in, it's unfortunate to hear this news about him.
'We also know, especially from the Netherlands, his successful tenure at Ajax and his two trophies here, so we expect to see him at a big club again soon. For now, it's a significant disappointment for him and his family.'
Before joining Anfield, Ten Hag seemed to criticize Slot in May when he belittled Feyenoord's achievements last season.
Feyenoord finished seven points behind champions PSV Eindhoven, and Ten Hag told Voetbal International: 'Feyenoord was consistent this year, but not top-tier. PSV Eindhoven was superior in every aspect. In terms of ball control, pressure, intensity, you name it.'
He added: 'PSV Eindhoven was far ahead of the rest, even much better than Feyenoord.'
However, Slot exacted his revenge earlier this season as Liverpool easily defeated United, and he has now outlasted Ten Hag in England.
United has been quick to search for Ten Hag's successor, with the club nearing a decision to hire Sporting Lisbon's manager Ruben Amorim.
Meanwhile, Ten Hag has returned to the Netherlands, where he plans to spend time with his family after his release from United.
