Liverpool Boss Arne Slot Praises Guardiola, Discusses Van Dijk, and Focuses on Winning
Key Takeaways:
- Arne Slot expresses admiration for Pep Guardiola’s coaching style and the innovative tactics he’s brought to football.
- Slot defends Virgil van Dijk against recent criticism, suggesting it’s a testament to the high standards he sets for himself.
- Instead of fixating on the league table, Slot is prioritizing winning as many games as possible.
- The manager recognizes Arsenal’s strong position and focuses on Liverpool’s performance rather than obsessing over title race implications.
Ahead of a crucial Super Sunday clash against Manchester City, Liverpool manager Arne Slot shared his thoughts on a range of topics, including his admiration for Pep Guardiola, the criticism faced by Virgil van Dijk, and his team’s approach to the Premier League title race. Liverpool head to the Etihad after recent victories against Aston Villa and Real Madrid, aiming to close the gap on league leaders Arsenal.
Slot began by praising Guardiola, who will be managing his 1,000th game. He emphasized his long-standing admiration for Guardiola’s coaching style and the entertainment value of his teams. "You’re always looking forward to watching his team play," Slot said, highlighting the privilege of analyzing Guardiola’s tactics. He admires Guardiola’s teams for their clear ideas in possession and their commitment to an attractive style of play. In contrast to the increasing prevalence of time-wasting tactics in modern football, Slot appreciates that Guardiola’s teams rarely resort to such methods. He also fondly recalled Guardiola’s Barcelona team, stating that they were an unforgettable sight. He further acknowledged Guardiola’s innovative approach, citing the introduction of the inverted full-back as just one example of his tactical brilliance. Slot concluded that Guardiola’s success is not only measured in trophies but also in the distinctive and admired style in which he achieves them.
Turning to his own team, Slot addressed the criticism directed at Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk. He came to the defence of the experienced defender who had been questioned for leadership by pundit Wayne Rooney. Slot emphasized Van Dijk’s crucial role as a leader within the team, stating that his presence is felt throughout the training ground. "When you walk through the AXA [training centre], when we start the training session, you can hear him, you can feel he’s our leader," Slot asserted. He commended Van Dijk’s vocal nature and leadership qualities, highlighting his importance to the club. Addressing the criticism Van Dijk receives, Slot pointed out the high standards that the defender has set for himself. He suggested that any slight dip in performance is immediately scrutinized because of the exceptional level Van Dijk consistently displays. Slot believes that Van Dijk should view the criticism as a testament to his own excellence and the lofty expectations placed upon him.
Finally, Slot discussed Liverpool’s approach to the Premier League title race. While acknowledging Arsenal’s current lead in the table, he insisted that his primary focus is on winning as many games as possible. "If you look at the current league table, it’s clear," he said, recognizing Arsenal’s advantage. However, he recalled Liverpool’s own experience last season, where a significant lead at one point did not guarantee ultimate success. Slot highlighted Arsenal’s defensive strength and consistent form, emphasizing that his immediate concern is not the league table but rather maximizing Liverpool’s performance in each game. He acknowledged the importance of the upcoming match against Manchester City, describing it as a clash between two very good teams.
