As Liverpool negotiate the appointment of Arne Slot as their new boss, Sky sports news Senior reporter Melissa Reddy explains how Premier League financial rules and similarities with Jurgen Klopp led the Reds to make the Feyenoord head coach their top candidate…
Arne Slot has a strong track record in player development, exceeding his budget and resources compared to his competitors at AZ Alkmaar and Feyenoord.
This is important when examining the football landscape and its impending changes.
We have seen the teeth of the Premier League’s profitability and sustainability rules, and with some clubs pushing for ‘anchoring’ and the introduction of a hard salary cap, the importance of work on the training pitches, the ability to develop young talent, etc. has been recognized that the opportunities to function well within the means will be more pronounced.
Under Fenway Sports Group, Liverpool has been run in a healthy and sustainable manner and it makes sense to hire a manager who can continue to maximize their resources.
Most of the candidates Liverpool considered met these criteria, but Slot’s approach to play and philosophy, which fits so well with what Klopp has implemented at the club, is what sets him apart.
This means there are no massive tactical shake-ups or adjustments. Liverpool have a vision and style of play that cuts across all age groups and determines the stylistic profile they recruit for. Therefore, it makes sense to continue with it.
Making the jump from the Eredivisie to a team that wants to win the Premier League and be a dominant force in Europe in a big game, but any potential successor to Klopp carries risks.
By the numbers: Slots similarities with Klopp
- Feyenoord have won more possession in the final third than any other team in Europe’s top five leagues, with Liverpool in second place.
- The average distance (meters) from your own goal when winning the ball in open play: Feyenoord 45.2 million, Liverpool 44.6 million.
- High sales: Liverpool 353, Feyenoord 344.
- Average ball possession in the league: Feyenoord 62 percent, Liverpool 61 percent.
Essential questions: Is Slot the man for Liverpool?
Ron Walker joins us Sky Sports News’ senior reporter, Melissa Reddy and Sky Sports Football journalist Adam Bate talks about Slot’s possible move to Liverpool as Klopp’s successor.
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The Making of Slot: Why He’s Right for Liverpool
Slot has emerged as a preferred candidate to replace the outgoing Klopp as the next Liverpool manager. But who is the man the club believes can lead them into this new era and what can they expect from this 45-year-old Dutch coach?
Speaking to those who have coached Slot and those who have been coached by him, as well as colleagues in his team, we examine the evolution of Liverpool’s next manager, exploring his tactical ideas, his people management and his dealings with the media.
Read Adam Bates’ detailed feature on the slot here.
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