Soccer News

Home

Teams

Leagues

Quizzes

Newsletter

Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images

Why Doubling-Dutch Hits the Slot for Liverpool

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Andy Hageman | Last updated Jun 4, 2025 12:46 PM ET

Arne Slot has stormed into Liverpool, clinching the 2024-25 Premier League title in his debut season, a feat only two other Reds managers have achieved. His tactical nous, rooted in Dutch football philosophy, has revitalized the squad, building on Jürgen Klopp’s legacy while carving a distinct path. Slot’s transformative impact and bold strategy have bolstered Liverpool’s Dutch contingent, and is, at least, a masterstroke.

Slot’s arrival at Anfield in May 2024 marked a seismic shift, yet he wisely avoided dismantling Klopp’s high-pressing, attacking framework. Instead, he refined it, emphasizing possession and tactical flexibility, with goalkeepers acting as an extra outfield player to stretch opposition presses. This evolution, dubbed “Slot-ball,” delivered a title with just one loss in 30 games (The Athletic).

Unlike Klopp’s emotional, high-octane approach, Slot’s is cerebral, focusing on adaptability and fitness. He prioritized squad conditioning to withstand a grueling schedule, stating, “I made my squad as fit as possible, maximum fitness” (TouchlineX). This allowed stars like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk to shine consistently.

Slot’s Dutch influence is unmistakable, with key players like van Dijk, Ryan Gravenberch, and Cody Gakpo thriving under his guidance. The recent $39 million signing of Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen, replacing Trent Alexander-Arnold and underscores his intent to double down on Dutch talent and Frimpong’s attacking flair fits Slot’s vision perfectly.

Klopp relied on a core of leaders like local-boy Alexander-Arnold, whose departure to Real Madrid for $10 million disappointed fans. Slot, however, spreads responsibility across the squad, fostering a collective mentality. His signings, like Frimpong, prioritize pace and versatility over individual stardom.

The Dutchman’s recruitment strategy diverges from Klopp’s cautious approach. Slot targets young, dynamic players like Lyon’s Rayan Cherki, with whom he held talks in France (Daily Mail). This signals a proactive transfer window, contrasting Klopp’s reliance on established stars.

Slot’s Champions League ambitions also set him apart. After a last-16 exit to Paris Saint-Germain, he’s eyeing “extra weapons” to compete in Europe. His focus on pace could reshape Liverpool’s attack, targeting players like Florian Wirtz.

Despite his success, Slot remains grounded, learning from Liverpool’s history and Klopp’s legacy. His ability to adapt tactically while maintaining fan support has cemented his status. At the Merseyside champions parade, marred significantly by a horrible incident, even as dozens of injured fans watched 'real' Scousers still chanted his name.

Looking ahead, Slot’s Doubling-up on the Dutch contingent, including assistants Sipke Hulshoff and Johnny Heitinga, will drive Liverpool’s title defense. Slot is relying on plenty of “Dutch courage” and that promises an exciting era ahead for Reds fans on Merseyside.

From the touchline to the training ground to the transfer market, Slot’s doubling-down on Dutch has become more than a theme — it’s the foundation of a new Liverpool era.

Next: Man United’s Billion-Dollar Game Why Losing to Spurs Could Bankrupt Them

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: