Klopp Speaks Out on Slot’s Liverpool Start: ‘It’ll work out really well’ | OneFootball

Jürgen Klopp’s Enthusiasm for Arne Slot: “Liverpool got a top, top, top solution in Arne Slot.”

Liverpool Football Club have embarked on a new chapter with Arne Slot at the helm, following the departure of Jürgen Klopp, the man who brought glory and passion to Anfield over nearly a decade. Klopp’s recent comments, shared with ESPN Netherlands, offer a fascinating glimpse into his thoughts on Slot’s appointment and the future of Liverpool. While Klopp is enjoying his time away from management, his admiration for Slot and optimism about Liverpool’s future are palpable.

Slot’s Influence on Liverpool: Seamless Transition

Transitioning from one legendary manager to another is always a daunting task, especially when the predecessor has left an indelible mark on the club’s history. Klopp’s legacy at Liverpool is cemented, having delivered a Champions League title, a Premier League trophy, and several domestic cups. However, Klopp has no qualms about the club’s choice of successor, describing Slot as a “top, top, top solution.”

In his interview with ESPN, Klopp emphasised how pleased he was when Liverpool made an early move for Slot. The German tactician stated, “I was really happy when I heard that Liverpool was going for Arne Slot. I wasn’t involved in anything… but the only concern for me was, will they get a good coach? Liverpool was early and Liverpool got a top, top, top solution in Arne Slot.”

Slot’s early impact was evident in Liverpool’s 2-0 victory against Ipswich, marking the beginning of a new era. Klopp praised Slot’s footballing philosophy, particularly how it was reflected in the preseason friendly against Sevilla. “I like his football a lot [how he] played it with, with [Feyenoord], so that’s really good… the second half was obviously really good,” Klopp remarked. His comments underline his belief that Slot’s tactical acumen and style of play are a perfect fit for Liverpool.

Photo: IMAGO

Challenge of Following a Legend

Stepping into Klopp’s shoes is no easy task. The weight of expectations from fans, players, and the broader football community is immense. Klopp’s tenure was characterised by a deep connection with the Liverpool faithful, a connection that will inevitably take time for Slot to build.

Klopp, however, is confident that Slot is the right man for the job. “It’s not important that I like it, you can see he is a very good coach and the team… is a really good squad, is a really good team. So it’ll work out really well,” he added.

The German coach’s faith in Slot is further demonstrated by his willingness to step back entirely from the club’s operations. Klopp made it clear that he doesn’t want to be seen as a figure in the background, pulling strings. Instead, he fully supports the new regime and is content watching from afar. “I’m not this kind of guy in the background, still having some strings and stuff. Like I don’t want that. The club is too big, too good. [The] People are too good,” Klopp emphasised.

Klopp’s Continued Connection to Liverpool

While Klopp is enjoying his sabbatical, his connection to Liverpool remains strong. He has kept in touch with some of his former players, particularly Virgil van Dijk, whom he described as an “unbelievable player” and an “unbelievable guy.” The bond between Klopp and his players was one of the defining aspects of his tenure, and it’s clear that this connection endures even after his departure.

Photo: IMAGO

“I miss them. I don’t miss the job, [but] I miss all the people there,” Klopp admitted, showing his emotional attachment to the team and the club. However, when it comes to the future of players like Van Dijk, Klopp refrains from speculation, stating, “I have no idea what they will do… they are grown-ups. They will do the right stuff.”

Despite his absence from the dugout, Klopp remains a keen observer of Liverpool’s progress. He closely followed their preseason and was impressed by what he saw. “When I saw the games… the work [Slot] did was obvious, the idea obvious. And that’s the best you can say about the coach,” Klopp remarked.

Klopp’s New Chapter: Life After Liverpool

Jürgen Klopp’s decision to take a year off from football management is a well-deserved break after years of intense competition. He is relishing the time spent with family and friends, a luxury he rarely enjoyed during his time at Liverpool. “I enjoy still watching football and especially Salzburg right now because [manager] Pep [Lijnders] is super important to me,” Klopp revealed, highlighting his continued interest in the game, albeit from a distance.

Klopp’s summer has been filled with a variety of activities, from watching the Olympics to playing padel. “Brilliant summer so far… we have spent now three proper weeks with the grandkids and the kids together. It was beautiful,” he said, encapsulating the joy he finds in this new phase of his life.

However, Klopp has not ruled out a return to management once his self-imposed 365-day hiatus is over. He remains “fully charged” and ready for whatever challenges lie ahead, though he is in no rush to make a comeback. For now, Klopp is content with his well-deserved break, confident that Liverpool is in safe hands with Arne Slot at the helm.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

It’s hard not to feel optimistic about the future under Arne Slot. Klopp’s endorsement of Slot as a “top, top, top solution” is not just comforting but also exciting. Fans have long admired Klopp for his footballing intelligence and emotional connection to the club, so his approval of Slot carries significant weight.

Slot’s early impact, as seen in the victory against Ipswich, suggests that Liverpool will continue to play an attractive, high-intensity style of football that has become synonymous with the club in recent years. While the transition will take time, and challenges are inevitable, the foundation laid by Klopp remains strong. Slot has inherited a talented squad, and with his tactical nous, Liverpool supporters can look forward to more success in the coming seasons.

As Klopp enjoys his time away from the pressures of football, Liverpool fans can rest assured that their club is in capable hands. And while we may miss the sight of Klopp on the touchline, the knowledge that he’s still keeping an eye on things – and approving of what he sees – is a reassuring thought for all who bleed red.