Mikel Arteta and Erik ten Hag Agree on “Formidable” Liverpool Under Arne Slot as “Very Aggressive” Verdict” Made
Arne Slot has made a significant impression on Erik ten Hag and Mikel Arteta, garnering their respect as the 2024/25 season approaches, following Liverpool’s impressive performances during its U.S. tour.
According to both Erik ten Hag and Mikel Arteta, Liverpool will be just as formidable under Arne Slot as they were under Jurgen Klopp. When the German unexpectedly announced he would depart Liverpool at the end of the 2023/24 season, rival supporters rejoiced while Liverpool fans faced uncertainty.
Klopp had guided Liverpool through a golden era, securing their first league title in 30 years and adding a sixth Champions League trophy to their cabinet.
Slot, who was appointed on a three-year contract after leaving Feyenoord, experienced a surprising 1-0 defeat to Preston in a closed-doors friendly.
However, Liverpool showcased their strength on their U.S. preseason tour, defeating Real Betis, Arsenal, and Manchester United despite missing some key players.
Although it was only a preseason tour, Arteta and Ten Hag observed Liverpool’s potential under Slot. After Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over Arsenal in Philadelphia, Arteta remarked: “They (Liverpool) are a team that are looking good, that is clear, with ideas they are looking to implement.
“Every coach has their touch and characteristics that make the team’s style of play. You can see what he (Slot) is doing.”
“Arteta was then asked if he thought Liverpool would succeed under Slot and the Arsenal coach replied: “I think so. We all have to start competing and earning our right to show how good we are.
“But the team’s looking good. With the games I’ve seen in preseason, it’s clear what he’s been trying to implement. It was a tough game for us.”
In a tactical adjustment, Slot positioned midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai in a deeper role, allowing Harvey Elliott to move freely through the center of the pitch.
Elliott contributed by assisting Mohamed Salah and Fabio Carvalho in a 2-1 victory. Despite a goal from Kai Havertz for Arsenal, Liverpool’s defense remained strong and secured a comfortable win.
Following this, Liverpool traveled to South Carolina and faced United three days later, delivering a decisive 3-0 defeat with goals from Carvalho, Curtis Jones, and Kostas Tsimikas.
Liverpool’s preseason performance has sharply contrasted with United’s, as the Red Devils have struggled to control matches and have also faced three injuries that may affect the start of their new season.
“There were mixed feelings, I would say,” Ten Hag told his club’s media after the 3-0 loss. “I think I have seen positive bits, but the way we concede goals, we are, of course, not happy with it.
“Of course, Liverpool are a very good side. They are very aggressive, and they have lots of goalscoring abilities, so they did very well. But the way we conceded, we are not happy with it.”
Thought
Preseason can be misleading, as it primarily serves as a fitness exercise and a testing ground for various tactics before the new season begins. Nevertheless, Slot gained significant respect from his rival head coaches during his successful U.S. tour.
In other Liverpool news, Arne Slot’s Pre-season Decisions Before Transfer Deadline Could Offer Insight into the Ideal Liverpool XI for New Season
