Arne Slot, the newly appointed head coach of Liverpool, has been seen in Merseyside ahead of officially assuming his role on June 1. Slot’s arrival comes less than 24 hours after Jurgen Klopp’s final game as manager on Sunday. Coincidentally, on the same day, Slot’s former team, Feyenoord, bid farewell to him as he prepared to take over at Anfield.
Despite only recently concluding his tenure in the Netherlands, the 45-year-old wasted no time familiarizing himself with his new surroundings. Just four days after his last match, Slot was spotted in Merseyside, notably at the prestigious two Michelin-starred Moor Hall Restaurant near Ormskirk. There, he was photographed alongside renowned chef Mark Birchall. This restaurant is conveniently located a short drive from Formby, where Slot is expected to reside.
Slot’s presence in Liverpool was not limited to fine dining. Michael Deane of Hat, Scarf or a Badge reported seeing him exiting the players’ entrance at Anfield on Thursday night. Deane expressed his excitement, stating that he gave Slot a thumbs up and was met with a big smile and a thumbs up in return. It is clear that Slot is eager to settle quickly in Merseyside and ensure a smooth pre-season for Liverpool.
While the specifics of Slot’s coaching staff have yet to be confirmed, it is anticipated that Sipke Hulshoff will serve as his assistant, while Ruben Peeters and Etienne Reijnen will join as head of performance and technical advisor, respectively, all three coming from Feyenoord. The transition occurs as Klopp departs Anfield along with several members of his coaching and fitness staff.
Slot has wasted no time in getting down to business, having already moved the start of pre-season forward to the first week of July. According to Chris Bascombe of the Telegraph, Slot is eager to make the most of his time with the squad before the season begins on August 17.
While inheriting a strong squad from Klopp, Slot will undoubtedly have his work cut out for him as he prepares for the upcoming season. With expectations high at Liverpool, the new manager will need to build upon Klopp’s success and continue the club’s winning tradition. Merseyside eagerly awaits the official start of Arne Slot’s tenure and the beginning of a new chapter in Liverpool’s storied history.