‘Arne Slot Era’ begins at Liverpool: 3 key talking points from the victory against Real Betis

New Delhi: Arne Slot started his journey as Liverpool’s manager with a solid 1-0 win over Real Betis, thanks to a great finish by Dominik Szoboszlai in Pittsburgh. This victory brings hope for the new era after Jürgen Klopp, especially following a recent 1-0 loss to Preston in a private friendly match at their training ground.

The highlight of the game came in the 34th minute when Hungarian midfielder Szoboszlai neatly finished Mohamed Salah’s pass. The match saw its tense moments, with Real Betis striker Juanmi missing two big chances in front of a lively crowd of 42,679 fans.

Unfortunately, Liverpool lost midfielder Curtis Jones to an injury about 30 minutes into the game. Slot mentioned it was too early to say how serious the injury might be.

Slot has stressed that his style won’t be very different from Klopp’s, but it’s clear that some tactical changes are already in progress. This win on their US tour gives Slot and the team a positive start as they look forward to the new season.

Liverpool fans have been wary of Slot’s appointment, eagerly awaiting the changes the Dutch manager will bring. They are hopeful that Slot can bring a fresh approach to a club that has become a title contender thanks to Jurgen Klopp’s expertise. Here are the key talking points:

1. A change in formation and approach

PITTSBURGH, PA – JULY 26: Liverpool FC coach Arne Slot talks to midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai (8) during the preseason friendly against Real Betis at Acrisure Stadium on July 26, 2024 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

The fierce gegenpress approach under Jurgen Klopp was dubbed as the ‘heavy-metal football’ in the English Premier League. The disciplined and attacking nature of the Reds had helped the club turnover their decade of misfortunes into a contender side that defeated teams like Real Madrid and Manchester City to clinch titles. The often-used 4-3-3/4-1-2-3 formation under Klopp became a staple system for the last nine years at the club.

However, Arne Slot’s tactics seem different and refreshing. Although the Dutch manager is still in the initial phase of trying ideas, his approach seemed to bring a different layer to Liverpool’s side. If Klopp’s style is touted as ‘heavy-metal’, then Slot’s football can be considered as a fusion between alternative rock and dreamy pop-core. The fluidity and creative freedom on the field are the visible notions from Slot’s side that can bring out the best in players like Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister.

The Reds used a flexible 4-2-4 formation without a traditional striker. With limited players, Klopp’s usual high-press game shifted to a slower, possession-based style, similar to Dutch tactics influenced by Johan Cruyff. Harvey Elliot and Szoboszlai alternated in the number 10 role, leaving Liverpool without a real striker for most of the game.

Szoboszlai’s role will likely change this season under Klopp’s new midfield plan. Curtis Jones noted that midfielders will be more dynamic. The defence was standard, but the midfield and attack roles were unclear, with Mo Salah being the main forward. With many key players absent, it’s too soon to know how Slot will set up the team for the season.

2. Slot’s trust in youngsters: A good sign for the club?

Main takeaway from today’s match was how impressive 17-year old Trey Nyoni was.

Here’s a look at his performance against @RealBetis. Liverpool’s next big thing in action!

🎬: @zaki10ii https://t.co/wqtSwa6jBE

— LFC Transfer Room (@LFCTransferRoom) July 27, 2024

Football fans have been in discussions all over social media about Liverpool’s lack of movement in the transfer window even though a new manager has been signed. Adding to that, the old guards like Mo Salah have had difficulties last season, with Liverpool fans calling for a rebuild for the future. The lack of interest in players from the club has been concerning for the fans, but it might turn out to be a good sign for the future. Arne Slot trusted several youngsters in his first match, and a few pounded on the opportunity.

The involvement of more academy players under Slot can turn out to be a blessing in disguise for the club, with the introduction of PSR and other regulations in the Premier League.

Stefan Bajcetic made a strong impact for the final 30 minutes. Ben Doak easily outpaced his defenders, while Tyler Morton played with notable authority. These were among the key performers. Conor Bradley worked tirelessly, and Jarrell Quansah, both aged 21, delivered solid performances. Carvalho, recently back from a Hull City loan, showed his determination with several threatening plays.

The second half saw a complete overhaul, with young substitutes including Trey Nyoni, Vítezslav Jaros, Tyler Morton, Harvey Blair, Ben Doak, Luke Chambers, Nat Phillips, Luca Stephenson, Owen Beck, Stefan Bajetic, Kaide Gordon, and Lewis Koumas all getting their chance. Nyoni, just 17, made a mark as he came on for the injured Curtis Jones, controlling the midfield and creating a major opportunity for Blair.

3. Not title-worthy yet

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA – JULY 25: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Arne Slot head coach of Liverpool during a training session at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex on July 25, 2024, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

Liverpool’s recent match showed that while there are positive signs, the team isn’t quite ready to challenge for major trophies just yet. The new tactics and player rotations revealed both promise and areas of inconsistency.

The team’s changing positions and occasional lack of cohesion, especially in the second half, made them vulnerable to more organised opponents. With several key players missing, it became clear that Liverpool still needs to improve before they can seriously compete with teams like Manchester City or Arsenal.

Arne Slot faces the challenge of getting his tactics to work while building a winning mentality in the squad. Balancing new signings and fine-tuning strategies will be crucial for Slot as Liverpool works towards becoming a top contender.