Arne Slot defends Liverpool philosophy amid claims of dull football | OneFootball

Arne Slot confronts Liverpool’s growing problem of perception

Arne Slot has never hidden his ideals. He wants football played on the front foot, space embraced rather than feared, and contests shaped by ambition rather than caution. That is why it has clearly jarred to hear Liverpool described as dull, even if the head coach has conceded the criticism is not without merit. As Liverpool prepare to face Arsenal at the Emirates, the debate around style has become as pressing as results.

Liverpool arrive in north London on an eight match unbeaten league run, matching Manchester City, yet that sequence masks a season that has drifted away from early promise. A run of one win in seven undermined their title defence and left Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal 14 points clear. Context matters too. The campaign began under the emotional weight of Diogo Jota’s death, a loss that shook the club deeply and set a sombre tone.

Photo: IMAGO

Tactical resistance shaping Liverpool matches

Slot insists his principles have not shifted. He believes opponents have changed instead. Increasingly, teams retreat into low defensive blocks or bypass midfield altogether with long balls, stripping Liverpool of pressing triggers and rhythm. The outcome has been games that feel slow, congested and short on incision.

Asked about supporters branding performances as dull, Slot said: “I find it really hard to hear but it is not that I completely disagree. I would use different words and I would take certain things into account.” He added: “I did not change our style, but teams have changed their style against us.”

That resistance has exposed a flaw. Liverpool have struggled to create chances against deep defences, a problem reflected in their modest goal return among the top four. Sunday’s draw with Fulham marked the tenth time points have been dropped in 20 league games.

PSG as Slot’s footballing ideal

Slot continues to point towards Paris Saint-Germain as the embodiment of what he wants football to look like. Open, assertive and technically brave. “My football is Paris Saint-Germain v Liverpool, Liverpool v Paris Saint-Germain,” he said. “That is how I would love to have every single game.”

Yet that Champions League tie, lost on penalties after 3½ hours of football, also revealed the gap Liverpool must close. PSG were the superior side over two legs, and repeating that experience would soon test patience at Anfield.

Arsenal test and belief in the squad

Arsenal are unlikely to mirror Fulham’s defensive approach, offering Liverpool space and an opportunity to respond. Slot remains convinced better days are ahead, particularly once key absentees return. “If everyone’s available and ready, then we can do special things,” he said.

For Liverpool, this visit to the Emirates feels pivotal. Not just for points, but for restoring belief that Arne Slot’s vision can still excite as well as endure.