Feyenoord boss Arne Slot has officially been announced as Liverpool’s new manager, following a compensation deal worth £9.4m with the Dutch club. The 45-year-old is set to succeed Jurgen Klopp at Anfield, with his three-year contract officially starting on 1 June, subject to a work permit.
Slot’s appointment comes after Klopp’s departure from Liverpool, with the German manager leaving the club after their season-finale win against Wolves. In his farewell address, Klopp urged Liverpool fans to support their new manager, chanting “Arne Slot, na na na na na”. This gesture highlights the respect and admiration Klopp has for Slot, further enhancing the credibility of his appointment.
One of the key reasons behind Slot’s selection as Liverpool’s top choice for the job is his attacking style of play. His teams at Feyenoord have displayed an exciting and dynamic brand of football, which aligns with Liverpool’s philosophy of high-intensity, attacking football. Moreover, Slot’s ability to develop players has also been a crucial factor in his appointment. Liverpool has a history of nurturing young talent, and Slot’s track record in player development makes him an ideal fit for the club.
Slot’s journey to becoming Liverpool’s manager has been marked by success and progression. After a playing career solely in the Netherlands, he began his coaching career as a youth coach at PEC Zwolle before moving on to become an assistant manager at SC Cambuur. He then made the move to AZ Alkmaar, where he eventually became the manager. In his first season in charge, AZ Alkmaar finished second, level on points with leaders Ajax before the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted the season. Despite being sacked in December 2020 due to negotiations with Feyenoord, Slot bounced back and took charge of Feyenoord in the summer of 2021. Under his leadership, Feyenoord won the Eredivisie in the 2022-23 season and clinched the Dutch Cup this season.
Slot’s appointment also comes after speculation surrounding other potential candidates for the Liverpool managerial role. Former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso, who guided Bayer Leverkusen to their first Bundesliga title this season, was linked with the position. However, Alonso put an end to the speculation in March by confirming his commitment to Leverkusen. Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim was also reportedly considered for the role, but ultimately, Liverpool chose Slot as their preferred candidate.
Overall, Arne Slot’s appointment as Liverpool’s new manager brings excitement and optimism to the club. With his attacking style of play, ability to develop players, and a track record of success, Slot has all the qualities needed to build on Klopp’s legacy and lead Liverpool to further triumphs in the future.