Liverpool progression under Arne Slot as Milos Kerkez steps forward
Liverpool continue to evolve under Arne Slot, and one of the clearest signs of that growth has been the rise of Milos Kerkez at left back. Signed from Bournemouth for £40m, the Hungary international needed time to settle at Anfield, yet patience from the coaching staff has paid off. The Premier League champions of 2024/25 have built their success on development as much as results, and Kerkez now looks fully integrated into Slot’s system.
Early criticism suggested the defender might struggle with the pace and tactical demands of Liverpool’s setup. Alan Pardew even claimed he had been found out after his move to Merseyside. Those doubts have faded as Kerkez has established himself in the starting eleven, showing improved positioning, stamina and attacking awareness.
Kerkez development shaped by guidance inside Liverpool squad
A key part of Milos Kerkez’s growth has come from his relationship with Andy Robertson. Competition for places can often create tension, yet the situation at Liverpool appears healthy. Reports indicate that Kerkez has leaned on the experienced Scotland international for advice rather than viewing him as a rival. That dynamic reflects the culture Arne Slot has encouraged since taking charge.
Slot has been particularly pleased with the defender’s fitness levels, allowing him to play two matches a week without a drop in performance. Robertson, once an automatic starter, has accepted a reduced role, contributing experience when required while Kerkez drives forward as Liverpool’s first choice on the left.
A report from the Daily Mail claims that Slot is delighted with the progress of Kerkez, since his arrival from Bournemouth in the summer.
Improved chemistry unlocking attacking output
Kerkez’s recent performances underline why Arne Slot remained patient. Liverpool’s 3-0 win over Brighton and Hove Albion highlighted his attacking threat, including a precise cross that led to a Curtis Jones goal. Former defender Stephen Warnock described him as ‘superb’, praise that reflects the growing belief around Anfield.
The full back has credited his on pitch partnership with Florian Wirtz for part of that improvement. He explained: “At the moment, there’s a good connection between me and Flo [Wirtz]. We’re playing well and I hope it keeps going.
“I like [the change in shape] because I have more freedom with Flo. We are moving, passing and playing a lot of one-twos. I felt like I was in the opposition box a lot more and crossing.”
Greater freedom in advanced areas has allowed Kerkez to showcase the attacking instincts that convinced Liverpool to invest heavily in him.
Arne Slot vision driving Liverpool consistency
For Arne Slot, the rise of Milos Kerkez is an example of trust and long term planning. The Liverpool manager recently explained his approach to developing younger players, saying: “This is what you get [Kerkez improving] if you keep playing those players who maybe sometimes have moments that are not as good as other moments or games not as good as other games. I think that’s normal for younger players and the only thing as a manager is to keep trusting them and believing in them because we know who we signed.
“We saw that potential and we knew and, has already been shown, that that potential will be seen if you keep playing them.”
That philosophy has become a defining trait of Liverpool under Slot. Consistency in selection has built confidence within the squad, and Kerkez’s progress reflects how belief from the coaching staff can accelerate development. As Liverpool continue their campaign, the left back’s journey from slow starter to key contributor stands as a reminder that growth often comes through persistence rather than instant impact.
