Dutch coach Arne Sloat, who took over at Liverpool from the legendary Jürgen Klopp, expressed his strong confidence in the club's future, asserting that the foundations currently being built will ensure the Reds have a solid base to compete at the highest level for years to come. Despite the challenges the team has faced this season, Sloat believes that the transfer market strategy, which focuses on young talent, puts the club in a "very good position" in the long term.
A transitional phase and building for the future
Slot's optimism comes at a sensitive time for Liverpool, as the club undergoes a transitional phase following a historic era of success under Klopp. After spending nearly £450 million ($616 million) in the summer transfer window, the team has had a shaky start, with some new signings struggling to find their form, resulting in a sixth-place finish in the Premier League. However, these investments were not merely short-term fixes, but part of a long-term vision aimed at rejuvenating the squad and ensuring its continued success.
Betting on young talent
New signings are the cornerstone of the Sloth project, with the Bundesliga duo of Frenchman Ugo Ekiekei and German Florian Wirtz exemplifying this approach, after the club invested around £200 million in acquiring them. This investment is beginning to pay off, with Ekiekei scoring twice in the recent 4-1 win over Newcastle, bringing his tally to 15 goals this season, while Wirtz has rediscovered his scoring touch, netting six goals in his last ten appearances. Sloth also praised promising French defender Jérémy Jacquet (20), who will join the team next season in a deal that could reach £60 million, describing him as “a huge talent and another example of the model we follow at this club.”.
Player development and the challenges of the Premier League
Slot explained that the development process requires patience, citing Werts' case: "As a coach, even if a player is struggling a bit at the beginning, you have to keep giving him playing time because that's the only way to improve." He added: "The biggest improvement for me has been in his off-the-ball performance, and that combination makes you ready for the Premier League." This philosophy reflects the Dutch coach's belief that harmony among players and their tactical development are the keys to success in the world's toughest leagues.
The importance of major confrontations
Liverpool are gearing up for a crucial clash against Manchester City on Sunday, a match of immense importance in the title race and the race for Champions League qualification. Slott is eager to avenge the heavy 3-0 defeat in the first leg, stating, "They were the better team, and we want to show a different side this time." A victory in this match would not only boost the team's position in the league table but also provide a huge morale boost for this young squad, confirming that Slott's project is on the right track to return Liverpool to the pinnacle of English and European football.
