Prior to the start of the 2024-25 Premier League season, expectations amongst Liverpool fans were relatively low. The departure of Jurgen Klopp and the lack of summer transfer activity were huge causes for concern, whilst new head coach Arne Slot was something of an unknown quantity at elite level.
Such was the level of pessimism around Liverpool’s title hopes that the Reds’ chances of winning the Premier League were rated at just 11% by Compare.bet. But fast forward three games and that percentage has risen to 18% off the back of three impressive wins, including a resounding 3-0 victory at bitter rivals Manchester United. Many experts are now seeing Slot’s squad as serious title contenders and fears over the Dutchman’s long term suitability for such a massive job have begun to subside.
So how has Slot managed to hit the ground running at Anfield? Here are four key factors that have contributed to the Reds’ early season success:
Small tactical tweaks
Whilst there have been very few changes to the Liverpool squad since Slot arrived, the Dutchman’s preferred style of play is somewhat different to his predecessor’s. Gone is the buccaneering attacking approach of Klopp, which led to some exhilarating displays, but did sometimes leave the Reds exposed in defence and vulnerable to counter attacks. Instead, Slot has introduced a 4-2-3-1 formation, which gives greater protection to the backline and reduces the chances of teams hitting them on the break.
Strikers firing
Of course, attack is still the Reds’ greatest strength, so fans will be delighted to have seen Mo Salah and Luis Diaz start the new season in sublime form. Both forwards already have three goals to their name, whilst Diogo Jota has chipped in with a goal and an assist of his own. Not only are Liverpool’s frontmen making plenty of goal contributions, but their overall performances suggest they are thriving under Slot.
Rock solid defence
At the other end of the pitch, Liverpool are yet to concede a Premier League goal this season. Alisson is as solid as usual, whilst Virgil Van Dijk has produced some of his best displays since the 2019-2020 title-winning season. Alongside the Dutchman, Ibrahima Konate has locked down the second centre half spot, leaving the likes of Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah having to settle for places on the bench. Stiffer tests await, but for now, Slot will be delighted with his side’s defensive efforts.
Generous opponents
Let’s be honest here, Liverpool have been greatly assisted by the quality (or lack of it) of their opening three opponents. Ipswich put up a strong fight in the first 45 minutes of their opening-day game, but their lack of Premier League experience left them exposed in the second half. Meanwhile, Brentford lacked ambition in their 2-0 defeat at Anfield and Manchester United self-destructed defensively during their 3-0 defeat at Old Trafford. Of course, Liverpool have needed to play well to take advantage of their opponents shortcomings, but it is unlikely that they will encounter such generosity throughout the rest of the campaign.
The good news for Slot is that after the international break, Liverpool has a run of very winnable fixtures in the league. Home games against Notts Forest and Bournemouth are followed by trips to Wolves and Crystal Palace. It is not beyond the realms of possibility that Slot’s men could reach early October with seven wins from seven games.
Can the great start continue?
So can the Reds mount a serious title challenge this season? It won’t be easy, as Manchester City look to have found their A-game earlier than usual and Arsenal have strengthened in key areas. On top of that, the likes of Spurs, Chelsea, Aston Villa and Brighton are also likely to present stiff challenges. It means the Reds will have plenty of huge challenges in the upcoming months.
Bookmakers have also been impressed with the start of Slot’s reign. The Reds are now priced at just 9/2 to lift the title. Slightly shorter than their odds at the beginning of the campaign. If you are interested in taking advantage of these odds, check out the best UK betting sites with PayPal and use Compare.bet to track changes in the market.
