Slot, previously at Feyenoord, is Liverpool’s first head coach due to a structural change in the club’s sporting hierarchy. He will collaborate closely with new sporting director Richard Hughes to shape the squad for the upcoming season. Slot emphasized that his European football experience has well-prepared him for this role, which involves working hand-in-hand with Hughes to secure the best transfer deals.
In a press conference, Slot explained: “This isn’t new to me. In Europe, we operate like this. At Feyenoord and my previous clubs, it was always a collaborative effort. Few clubs have one person making all decisions. It’s a team effort. Sporting directors don’t typically sign players the head coach doesn’t want, and vice versa.”
Although Slot didn’t specify which areas of the team he plans to strengthen, he expressed confidence in the squad’s current quality and potential.
“I won’t give specific numbers. We already have a strong team, with several new signings from last season,” he said.
“The longer a team stays together under a good head coach, the more you’ll see improvement. I’m fortunate to join a club where there aren’t many outgoing transfers. At Feyenoord, it was common for eight, nine, or ten players to leave each season, making it harder to achieve progress. Here, I expect Hughes to retain most players, and together, we can build from there.”
Succeeding Klopp, who achieved great success in his nine-year tenure, Slot acknowledged the high expectations.
“These are big shoes to fill, but I inherit a squad with a winning culture,” Slot remarked.
“One of the reasons I came here, among many, is because we have a strong squad. As a manager, you want to work with talented players and have the chance to win. This club’s history shows we can win trophies.
“I enjoy developing players and winning. At this club, there’s an opportunity for both. It’s important to get to know the city, but more important to win games. Success on the field will give me time to connect with the city better. But it starts with improving the team and winning as many games as possible.”
Reflecting on Klopp’s impact, Slot commented on Klopp’s self-description as “the normal one” and the legacy he left.
“What Jurgen did here was special. He called himself ‘the normal one,’ but his success and the impression he left were extraordinary. He won trophies and his playing style was loved by fans. Maybe he saw himself as normal, but the fans saw him differently. His contributions were anything but ordinary.”
Slot’s appointment heralds a new era for Liverpool, building on Klopp’s strong foundation. His focus on collaboration and continuity suggests a steady approach to maintaining Liverpool’s competitive edge and achieving long-term success. Fans are eager to see how Slot’s strategies will unfold as he leads one of the world’s most storied football clubs.
Liverpool performance and stats
