Arne Slot, the newly appointed head coach of Liverpool, has yet to make a public appearance since officially starting his job on June 1. James Pearce of the Athletic explains that the delay in Slot’s unveiling was planned, as it was scheduled to happen closer to the start of pre-season, rather than in early June. This timing allows Slot to enjoy some family time after a long season at Feyenoord before embarking on the biggest challenge of his life.
Slot has been present on Merseyside and has likely been taking care of some early business. He has also had conversations with Jurgen Klopp, the outgoing manager, over the phone. On May 23, Slot was spotted at Anfield and at a restaurant near Ormskirk.
The decision to delay Slot’s unveiling was made out of respect for Klopp, whose contract ran until the end of May. The club wanted to give Klopp the spotlight and avoid overshadowing his departure with Slot’s arrival. Additionally, the circumstances differ from Klopp’s own unveiling in 2015, as he started working immediately at Melwood due to it being mid-season. In contrast, Slot has to wait for another month before he can meet his players.
While Slot is settling into his role, Liverpool has yet to officially announce the arrival of his assistants. However, it is expected to be a formality for most of them. One of his assistants is Sipke Hulshoff, who worked with Slot at Feyenoord. Virgil van Dijk accidentally let slip Hulshoff’s move to Liverpool during an interview, expressing his happiness for him and his family. Ruben Peeters will be taking on the role of lead physical performance coach for the first team. This position appears to combine aspects of the jobs previously held by Andreas Kornmayer and Andreas Schlumberger, who recently left Liverpool.
There have been some complications regarding Etienne Reijnen, an analyst and technical advisor at Feyenoord, who was part of the package deal with Slot and his team. Reijnen is facing difficulties in obtaining a work permit, which has become more challenging in England. Although Slot and Liverpool still want him, there is a possibility that Reijnen may remain at Feyenoord’s stadium, De Kuip.
In conclusion, the delay in Arne Slot’s public appearance as Liverpool head coach was pre-planned to coincide with the start of pre-season. This approach respects Jurgen Klopp’s departure and allows Slot time for personal matters. While Slot has been present in Liverpool, the club has yet to officially announce his assistants. Ruben Peeters will take on a role that combines aspects of the previous fitness and conditioning positions. Etienne Reijnen’s work permit is currently uncertain, but efforts are being made to bring him to Liverpool. Overall, Slot’s arrival and the surrounding preparations are being handled carefully and thoughtfully by the club.