Five Reasons Arne Slot’s Liverpool Appointment is Already a Success

Liverpool’s choice of Arne Slot as their new manager has proven to be nothing short of transformative. Since stepping into the role, Slot has brought a fresh and exciting approach to the club, revitalising both the squad and the fans’ enthusiasm. His “Slotball” style has resonated with supporters, combining high energy, tactical intelligence, and pressing with purpose. As Liverpool reach the season’s early stages, it’s clear that the club’s owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), made a savvy decision in appointing Slot.

In just a short time, Slot has demonstrated his acumen through a series of decisions that have reignited the Reds’ fortunes. Here are five pivotal moves he’s made, showing why his tenure could usher in a new era of success for Liverpool.

Quansah Substitution

Slot’s ability to make quick and impactful tactical decisions became evident in his very first game. As Liverpool struggled against Ipswich, it was clear that something had to change to gain control. Instead of tweaking the formation or swapping a striker, Slot made a bold decision that few anticipated: he substituted Jarell Quansah at half-time.

Quansah had been solid in the first half, but Slot saw a different way forward, introducing Ibrahima Konaté. Reflecting on his decision, Slot said, “The first thing I said at half-time was we don’t have to speak about tactics if you lose so many duels, and that’s what we did. It’s not that Jarell lost every duel, many of us lost too many duels, so we needed Konaté to win these long balls in the air towards their No.9 [Liam Delap], so that helped and gave us control.”

The move worked seamlessly. Konaté’s physicality and aerial presence stifled Ipswich’s attacking play, allowing Liverpool to secure a 2-0 victory and set the tone for a confident start to the season. Slot’s willingness to make brave changes reflects his adaptability and determination to steer Liverpool back to the top.

Targeting Casemiro Against Manchester United

One of Slot’s standout qualities has been his keen understanding of the Premier League’s tactical demands. In Liverpool’s emphatic 3-0 victory over Manchester United, Slot capitalised on his opponent’s weaknesses and made sure to target Casemiro, who endured a particularly frustrating match.

Slot emphasised that Liverpool’s pressing game would continue under his stewardship, noting, “We always want to press high. That’s what Jürgen did. That’s what we try to continue.” True to his word, Liverpool’s pressing game was relentless, forcing mistakes and disrupting United’s rhythm. Casemiro, in particular, struggled under the intensity of Liverpool’s attackers, leading to two first-half goals that came directly from his errors.

Slot explained his approach further, saying, “Their full-backs are sometimes really high and then Casemiro comes in between [the centre-backs]. So if you pick the ball and you keep Luis Díaz and Mo Salah high, you’re constantly in a one-v-one situation.” The result was a tactical masterclass that left United reeling and showcased Slot’s ability to outmanoeuvre even the most experienced Premier League managers.

Gravenberch’s Reinvention

Arne Slot has displayed a talent for spotting potential in players and putting them in positions where they can shine. Perhaps the most striking example has been his transformation of Ryan Gravenberch. The young Dutch midfielder had an uneven first season at Liverpool, showing flashes of brilliance but lacking consistency. However, Slot’s faith in Gravenberch has paid dividends, as the 22-year-old has flourished in his new role.

Slot repositioned Gravenberch in a No. 6 role, forming a double pivot with Alexis Mac Allister. This move, initially considered by Klopp, has now become a staple of Slot’s system. Gravenberch has proven to be a revelation, dominating the midfield and setting the tempo for Liverpool’s attacks.

Bigger tests await the young midfielder, but his performances so far suggest that he is well-prepared. Should he continue this form against the likes of Chelsea and Arsenal, Gravenberch could be one of the season’s breakout stars—a testament to Slot’s eye for talent and his ability to bring out the best in his players.

Szoboszlai’s Relentless Work Rate

Dominik Szoboszlai has become an essential part of Liverpool’s midfield under Slot, demonstrating an impressive work rate that exemplifies the team’s high-energy style. Though Szoboszlai’s goal-scoring record remains a topic of debate among fans, his value to the team is undeniable.

Slot recognised Szoboszlai’s capacity for pressing and utilises him as a critical part of Liverpool’s high-octane approach. Following the Manchester United win, Slot commented, “You need midfielders that can run and we had three of them today that kept on running, and if you arrive in a duel, they are aggressive enough to win it.”

Slot’s appreciation for Szoboszlai’s effort underscores his belief in building a squad that is both physically resilient and tactically astute. While fans may still look for more goals from Szoboszlai, Slot has managed to channel his energy in a way that benefits the team’s structure, making the Hungarian a crucial component of Liverpool’s resurgence.

Playing to Players’ Strengths

One of Slot’s early challenges at Liverpool involved deciding on the best positions for key players, including Trent Alexander-Arnold and Cody Gakpo. Alexander-Arnold’s role, in particular, has been the subject of constant debate, as the right-back has been frequently utilised in a more central, midfield-oriented role. Under Slot, however, his responsibilities have become more defined.

Slot has employed Alexander-Arnold in a way that maximises his strengths, primarily using him in his natural right-back role with the occasional foray into midfield. This approach has allowed Alexander-Arnold to contribute both defensively and offensively, harnessing his crossing ability and vision without compromising Liverpool’s defensive structure.

Similarly, Slot has restored Gakpo to his preferred position on the left flank, a move that has helped the forward rediscover his form. Gakpo’s performances for the Netherlands demonstrated his proficiency on the left, and Slot wasted no time in ensuring he could replicate this at Liverpool. By making these adjustments, Slot has not only clarified player roles but also fostered a sense of balance and cohesion within the team.

This commitment to playing his squad in their optimal positions has paid dividends, enabling Liverpool to operate with a new level of fluidity and confidence. Slot’s approach is a refreshing change that has energised the players and set a foundation for sustainable success.

In just a short span, Arne Slot has already begun to reshape Liverpool’s fortunes. Through his tactical nous, ability to inspire his players, and a clear vision for the future, Slot has shown that FSG’s decision was a wise one. From smart substitutions and targeted pressing to reimagining roles for key players, Slot has proven his mettle as a manager capable of navigating the challenges of the Premier League. With a renewed sense of purpose and a team playing to its full potential, Liverpool under Slot looks poised to embark on an exciting new chapter.