Arne Slot dismissed speculation over his future as Liverpool manager on Thursday despite a disappointing season, with the Dutchman already involved in plans for next season.
Liverpool are fourth in the Premier League, 20 points behind leaders Arsenal, just a year after winning the title in Slot's first season in charge.
The Reds spent over €600 million on transfers last summer, but this investment has so far not brought the expected results.
Injuries to key players have hampered Slot throughout the season, while the club has also dealt with the tragic death of Diogo Jota in a car accident in July.
"I don't think it's up to me to decide this, but I have every reason to believe that I will be Liverpool manager next season," Slott said in a press conference ahead of Friday's match against Aston Villa.
"Firstly, I have a contract with the club, and secondly, from all the conversations we have had. This is my opinion on the situation."
A top-five finish ensures Champions League qualification, while Liverpool have a four-point lead over sixth-placed Bournemouth with two games remaining.
However, frustration with Slot has grown in recent months among fans at Anfield.
There were loud boos after the 1-1 draw with Chelsea last weekend, as well as negative reactions to his decision to replace Rio Ngumohan during that match.
"I think football has reached a point where if a manager or a club doesn't have the best season, there's always a debate. It happens everywhere in the world, not just at Liverpool. That's the new reality in football," Slot added.
"It's not up to me to judge the people who judge me. They have their right to have an opinion."
After the match against Chelsea, Slot promised to bring "a different team next season" if the transfer window goes according to his expectations.
The former Feyenoord coach confirmed that he is at the center of the club's plans for transfers and the organization of next season.
"We know where we're going for the pre-season tour. Plans are made and talks with the club about new players are ongoing, and I'm involved in them," Slot said.
A former Liverpool fan favourite, Xabi Alonso, had been linked with the possibility of replacing Slotin.
However, reports this week suggest that the former Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid coach is closer to taking charge of Chelsea next season.
Slot also confirmed that Mohamed Salah will be available to play in a limited role in the trip to Aston Villa.
There were fears that the Egyptian, who will leave after nine remarkable years at Liverpool at the end of the season, could have already played his last game for the club after suffering a thigh injury last month.
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