Pep Lijnders, Liverpool’s departing assistant manager, recently shared an interesting story about Arne Slot, who is set to become the team’s next manager. Lijnders revealed that nine years ago, Slot visited him at his home in Holland and bombarded him with numerous football-related questions. Despite not knowing each other personally, Klopp and Slot have spoken on the phone since the announcement of his appointment. However, it is Lijnders who has a closer relationship with the new manager, having known him for quite some time.
Their initial meeting took place when Slot was part of the coaching staff at Cambuur. Recalling that meeting, Lijnders said, “He came to my house in Holland about nine years ago. He came to speak to me about football. He drove for a long time to see me and he had a thousand questions. I tried to answer them all!” Since then, the two have stayed in touch, with Lijnders describing Slot as an incredible coach who knows what he wants and has the necessary experience to lead a club like Liverpool.
Lijnders believes that Slot will seamlessly fit into Liverpool’s future plans, especially considering the young talent present in the squad. Comparing Feyenoord, where Slot previously worked, to Liverpool, Lijnders noted that both clubs have passionate fans who sing “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” He emphasized the need for a coach like Slot who shares the same strategic approach that Liverpool has implemented over the years, focusing on dominating possession, pressing, and counter-pressing.
During conversations with Mike Gordon and Jurgen Klopp, Lijnders expressed his belief that a young coach like Slot would be the ideal fit for Liverpool’s new team and could grow along with them. Lijnders also mentioned that Sipke Hulshoff is expected to replace him as assistant manager. Hulshoff has already stepped down from his position as Ronald Koeman’s Netherlands assistant and is likely to leave Feyenoord soon. While not officially announced as a Liverpool employee yet, Hulshoff is expected to take on the role in the near future.
Overall, Lijnders’ insights and praise for Arne Slot provide a glimpse into the potential success that the new manager could bring to Liverpool. His close connection with Lijnders and shared football philosophy make him an exciting prospect for the club’s future. Liverpool fans can look forward to seeing how Slot builds upon the team’s recent achievements.