A Liverpool fan had the opportunity to reflect on Arne Slot’s first interview as the Reds’ new coach during a five-hour delay in Doha. The fan had just bid farewell to Jurgen Klopp and was traveling to Australia for a special occasion. Initially, there was not much transfer speculation or news about Slot, allowing the fan to switch off from Liverpool updates for a few weeks. However, just as the fan was about to embark on a 14-hour flight, a notification arrived announcing Slot’s first interview.
During the delay in the airport, the fan settled in and watched the interview on their phone. The interview lasted 26 minutes and 30 seconds, providing a good opportunity to get a first look at the new coach. Despite still expecting Klopp to return for pre-season, the fan was impressed by Slot’s honesty, self-assurance, and awareness of the challenge he had taken on. Slot acknowledged Klopp’s influence but made it clear that he would implement his own ideas and exercises.
Slot’s confidence in his ability to rise to the challenge was evident in his words. He expressed a desire to see Liverpool finish higher than third place and believed that with the players’ abilities and some additional improvements, they could achieve more than the previous season’s 82 points. While there was initial trepidation about Slot’s appointment, his first official introduction inspired confidence. He respected Klopp’s legacy while emphasizing his own principles.
As the fan lay in the airport booth, they noticed an undercurrent of excitement from Slot about what is to come. His genuine smile and concise yet insightful answers slowly won the fan over, despite Slot not actively trying to do so. Throughout the process, Slot has remained personable and open, which is crucial in winning over players, staff, and fans.
Slot’s final message resonated with the fan: he promised to do everything in his power to lead the team in the best possible way. After contemplating Slot’s interview during the delay and subsequent flight, the fan felt more optimistic about the upcoming season. Slot’s words injected a newfound belief and slowly reignited their buzz for the new season.
While the future is uncertain, Slot’s interview provided a small dose of much-needed confidence. The fan contemplated the possibility of joining Klopp in singing “Arne Slot, na na, na na na!” in support of the new coach.