Influencer Editorial Team
Arne Slot, the new head coach of Liverpool FC, has acknowledged the immense challenge of succeeding Jurgen Klopp, emphasizing the significant influence Klopp’s rivalry with Pep Guardiola had on football. In his first interview since his appointment, Slot discussed his admiration for Liverpool and Manchester City, noting how their competition advanced European football, much like the legendary rivalry between Lionel Messi’s Barcelona and Cristiano Ronaldo’s Real Madrid.
Slot expressed his longstanding admiration for the Premier League and its top teams. “One of the reasons why I came in is because Liverpool ‘scouted’ me for my style of play,” Slot said. He recognized the importance of maintaining the successful playing style established under Klopp while also putting his own stamp on the team. Slot has been studying videos of Klopp’s training sessions to “steal his ideas” and ensure a smooth transition.
The Dutch coach emphasized his intention to uphold the culture and style that Klopp fostered. “We are going to try to work on what Jurgen left behind and we will see a lot of similar things. But, of course, I bring my own things to the table as well and I think that’s also what is expected of me,” he said. Slot has already reached out to senior players, including Virgil Van Dijk, to discuss the upcoming season and gather insights.
Slot revealed that he had spoken to Klopp for advice on the club and the players. Klopp was supportive and offered valuable tips while expressing his happiness for Slot. “He would be my biggest fan from now on because he supports Liverpool in the best possible way,” Slot shared, highlighting Klopp’s character and supportive nature.
Slot has been analyzing training footage to understand the existing culture and training methods at Liverpool. “You want to know what the culture is, how they train and what they are used to. If you can see the way they train, that can only help you,” Slot explained. He assured fans that while he would incorporate some of Klopp’s methods, he would also implement his own training exercises.Slot acknowledged the high expectations and the challenge of improving on Liverpool’s third-place finish last season. “We would all love to see Liverpool a bit higher than third place and this is the challenge we are facing now,” he stated. Slot expressed confidence in the players and the potential to achieve better results in the upcoming season.
Slot explained that the delay in his official unveiling was out of respect for Klopp’s prolonged farewell. “I think it was fair to him and to the club and to the supporters to wait a bit and then to come in,” he said. Arne Slot’s first interview as Liverpool FC’s head coach highlights his respect for Klopp’s legacy and his determination to build on it. With a blend of continuity and innovation, Slot aims to propel Liverpool to new heights, leveraging his own strategies while honoring the successful foundations laid by his predecessor.
