Liverpool manager Arne Slot honours victims of parade crash by withdrawing from LMA awards, praising emergency responders.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot chose to withdraw from the League Managers Association (LMA) annual awards dinner on Tuesday night following the shocking incident during the club’s Premier League title parade. The Dutch coach, who had been set to receive two major accolades, made the decision as a mark of respect and solidarity with those affected by the tragedy.

Slot, who has had an outstanding debut season in English football after taking over from Jurgen Klopp last summer, was named both LMA Manager of the Year and Barclays Premier League Manager of the Year. His success came after guiding Liverpool to their second Premier League title since the competition’s inception and their first since the 2019/20 campaign.

However, the celebratory mood was overshadowed by a horrifying event that unfolded on Monday evening. A car rammed into fans gathered on Water Street at around 6pm during Liverpool’s title parade, resulting in 65 people being injured. Of those, 50 required hospital treatment, with 11 still in hospital in a stable condition as of Tuesday. The incident shocked the city and the wider football community.

In a letter to the LMA, Slot explained his decision to miss the ceremony in London, saying: “As you will know, a shocking incident took place in Liverpool yesterday, one that left dozens of men, women and children who had attended our parade injured, and as a result I have had to withdraw from the event out of solidarity with all affected.”

He added that it was not a decision taken lightly but felt it was the right response to the seriousness of the situation. Slot also expressed gratitude towards the broader football family for their support during this difficult time. “Football is and always should be a game built on rivalry, but it is also a great source of comradeship, especially at times like this,” he said.

Merseyside Police confirmed a 53-year-old man had been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, dangerous driving, and driving while unfit through drugs. The suspect remains in custody as the investigation continues.

Slot also paid tribute to the swift actions of emergency services who responded to the incident. He commended the police, paramedics, and other first responders for their prompt efforts to manage the crisis and care for the injured.

“I would also like to pay tribute to the emergency services and other authorities in Liverpool who swung into action as soon as the incident happened,” Slot stated. He further recognised the courage and solidarity shown by fans and bystanders who supported one another through the chaos.

The incident cast a shadow over what should have been a joyous occasion for Liverpool fans and players alike. Slot’s decision to pull out of the LMA event reflects his empathy and leadership in prioritising the welfare of the community over personal accolades.

Liverpool’s victory parade had been a historic celebration marking the club’s long-awaited return to Premier League glory, but the tragedy reminded all involved of the fragility of such moments. The football world has since rallied around Liverpool, sending messages of support and condolences.

The LMA awards dinner continued without Slot’s presence, with many recognising the gravity of the situation and respecting his decision. Slot’s gesture highlighted the human side of football management, where triumph and tragedy can sometimes collide.

As Liverpool and the city continue to recover from the aftermath of the crash, Slot’s leadership on and off the pitch remains a beacon of hope and solidarity. The club and its supporters will undoubtedly draw strength from one another as they move forward from this difficult episode