New Delhi: Liverpool’s journey to the top of the Premier League under Arne Slot has been nothing short of remarkable. While the Dutchman’s approach may differ from the high-octane football Liverpool fans were accustomed to under Jurgen Klopp, it has proven to be equally effective. Slot’s tactics blend control and discipline with moments of brilliance, a change that has transformed the way the Reds approach their games.
In a recent enthralling clash at Anfield, Liverpool edged past Chelsea 2-1 passing the toughest test yet. Mohamed Salah opened the scoreline with a penalty but it was Curtis Jones’ winning goal that ensured the victory. While Klopp’s Liverpool often thrived in chaos Slot’s Liverpool exhibited a more measured approach built on discipline and control.
🔴✨ Massive win for Liverpool, remaining on top of Premier League table!
21 points, 15 goals scored and only 3 conceded under Arne Slot. 🔝 pic.twitter.com/NuuAwzXyhX
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 20, 2024
Measured tempo and tactical discipline
Slot’s approach is centered around a more calculated and balanced tempo. He favors a middle ground compared to the ‘heavy metal’ style of his predecessor, Jurgen Klopp. He has introduced a system focused on control, enabling the Reds to manage the game’s pace more efficiently. This measured approach has not only brought greater stability but has also improved Liverpool’s possession play.
Liverpool’s passing accuracy this season (85.9%) is a testament to this newfound control. Although slightly improved from last season, the emphasis on fewer long balls down from 25.3 per game to 22.6 and more structured build-up play especially how they approach the final third of the pitch has been a key component of Slot’s strategy.
With fewer chaotic moments and a more organized structure, Liverpool have shown that they can dominate games without overwhelming their opponents with relentless pressure. Slot has also introduced a more disciplined pressing system with fewer possessions regained in the attacking third and focusing more on maintaining a strong defensive shape.
This tactical discipline was on full display against the Blues, a match that required resilience and mental strength rather than the attacking frenzy often seen in the past. The result highlighted how Slot’s tactics have instilled a sense of calm and control in the team, allowing them to weather tough periods and grind out results when needed.
Statistical brilliance and defensive solidity
Under Slot’s guidance, Liverpool have enjoyed an exceptional start to the season with 10 wins in 11 games. This was even their best record in any campaign since 1990-91. This remarkable record is not just a result of Slot’s tactical nous but also the team’s ability to adapt to a more structured style of play.
10 wins in his first 11 games.
No manager in Liverpool history has had a better start than Arne Slot.
Our gaffer. pic.twitter.com/4WE1ZA3VS1
— Anfield Edition (@AnfieldEdition) October 20, 2024
While the stats may not show drastic changes, the subtle differences in the way Liverpool approach their games have made them a more all-rounder team. One of the most significant changes has been in the defensive organization. Slot’s Liverpool press less aggressively compared to last season and focuses on regaining possession in deeper areas rather than high up the pitch. This shift has allowed Liverpool to maintain a solid defensive foundation, making them harder to break down. Though their pressing intensity has dropped from 6.1 possessions regained in the attacking third per game last season to 4.3 this season, a clear sign that Slot prioritizes structure over chaos.
Despite Chelsea dominating possession at Anfield (58%), with a record pass completion rate for an away side, Liverpool never looked vulnerable. Slot’s side exuded an air of control and absorbed the pressure while maintaining their defensive shape. The fact that Chelsea had so much of the ball but created few clear-cut chances speaks volumes about how Slot’s tactics have made Liverpool a more resilient and tactically astute side.
The action from Anfield as @MoSalah and @CurtisJr_10 were on target to seal the points for the Reds at Anfield 🙌🔴 pic.twitter.com/Tm6vQenMQx
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) October 21, 2024
Substance over style
Liverpool under Arne Slot:
■ 1st in the Premier League
■ 2/2 wins in the Champions League
■ Beat Man United, AC Milan and Chelsea
■ One loss across all competitionsWhat a start 💪 pic.twitter.com/STh9IMUDPP
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) October 20, 2024
While Slot’s Liverpool may not be as exhilarating to watch as Klopp’s, the results speak for themselves. Slot’s emphasis on control and discipline has brought a different kind of excitement to Anfield, one that is rooted in tactical brilliance and efficiency. With tough tests still ahead, including a crucial clash against Arsenal, Slot says, “Judge Liverpool after the next seven games”. He adds his team’s biggest tests will be to play the Champions League and top Premier League matches every three days something Arsenal and Manchester City have done for the last two seasons.
In many ways, Liverpool under Slot are different from what they were under Klopp but in so many ways they are just the same. The substance remains a team that is capable of winning in different ways, a team that can dig deep when required, and most importantly, a team that knows how to show up at crucial times. Slot has demonstrated that evolution, rather than revolution, can keep Liverpool firmly positioned at the top of the Premier League.
