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Tony Evans: Slot’s Sharp Lessons Fuel Liverpool’s Next-Level Ambitions

Slot Ready to Raise the Bar After Title-Winning Start

This is an abridged version; the full article is available on our ‘It Was Always… Liverpool’ Substack page:

Arne Slot’s debut season at Anfield delivered more than anyone expected, with Liverpool crowned Premier League champions. But the Dutchman is still reflecting on the missteps. The loss to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup final and the Champions League exit on penalties to PSG still gnaw at him. Despite the success, Slot remains focused on improvement.

Early Lessons From the Premier League

Slot adjusted to the demands of English football quicker than most. Unlike Pep Guardiola and Jürgen Klopp, who took time to adapt, Slot identified problems early. The turning point came after the September international break last year when Liverpool lost at home to Nottingham Forest. The squad looked flat, and Alexis Mac Allister in particular showed signs of fatigue from travel. Slot now understands the toll international duty can take and is planning accordingly. For this weekend’s match at Turf Moor, Mac Allister may be given a rest.

Smarter Rotation and Fresh Talent

One of the key upgrades from last season is squad depth. Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez and Alexander Isak offer more flexibility and creativity. The upcoming stretch of seven games in 21 days across three competitions will test that depth, but it is also a chance for Slot to experiment. Early performances this season have been uneven, yet Liverpool have collected nine points, largely thanks to mental strength and Slot’s game management.

Slot’s Sharp Lessons Fuel Liverpool’s Next-Level Ambitions

Image @LFC

Isak’s handling by Sweden during the international break also gave Liverpool a boost. After missing pre-season, the striker only featured briefly in their World Cup qualifiers, returning fit and ready. That decision avoided the usual frustration that international fixtures bring.

adidas and Liverpool: A Historic Connection

Off the pitch, adidas have struck a chord with fans. The new green third kit has been a hit, especially with those who haven’t worn official gear in years. The bond between the brand and Liverpool supporters runs deep, dating back to 1976 when adidas shirts first appeared on Merseyside streets. That connection evolved into a fashion movement and remains strong to this day.

Now, with adidas looking for a flagship partner after parting ways with Germany, Liverpool are seen as the future. The deal looks set to be as lucrative as it is nostalgic.