When Arne Slot took over Liverpool from Jurgen Klopp, he didn’t waste time making his intentions clear.
Addressing the squad for the first time in Pittsburgh, he set the tone by stating that he expected trophies, not just progress.
His message was unambiguous – this season was about winning, not just transitioning.
Taking over from a manager who had left a monumental legacy, Slot could have played it safe with a more cautious approach. But instead, he boldly aimed for success from the get-go.
Now, just eight months later, Liverpool stands on the brink of winning the Carabao Cup at Wembley, a potential first tangible reward under his leadership.
Andy Robertson Reflects on Slot’s Impact
Andy Robertson, one of the key figures from Klopp’s legendary Liverpool side, recalls the early days of working with Slot.
As the Scotland captain, he remembers how Slot’s first meeting with the team was all about ambition.
“He basically said, ‘We finished third last season and now we want to finish above the other two,'” Robertson explains.
It was clear that Slot wasn’t aiming for the comfort of a top-four finish; he wanted titles.
Robertson also noted that Slot understood the expectations at a club like Liverpool. There was no time for a ‘settling-in’ period, even after Klopp’s departure.
“It’s a massive club that expects to win,” Robertson added. And it’s exactly that mentality that has driven the team to success this season.
Robertson Faces Scrutiny as His Career Evolves
Robertson, now 31, acknowledges that his place in the team is under scrutiny, especially with new players like Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez reportedly attracting interest. “Football changes all the time.
People want new players, players out,” he reflects. “That’s the world we live in, and that’s just the way it is.”
Despite these pressures, Robertson remains focused on the team’s goals.
“We’ve done well this season because we’ve concentrated on every game,” he says.
While he admits his performances have been a mixed bag this season, he’s committed to pushing forward and making the most of every opportunity.
The Premier League is the Ultimate Goal
While Liverpool’s top priority remains the Premier League, where they currently hold a 15-point lead, today’s match against Newcastle offers an important opportunity to claim silverware.
Robertson, who remembers last year’s dramatic League Cup final against Chelsea, understands the value of a trophy, no matter the competition.
“That final was unbelievable with the injuries we had and young lads coming off the bench,” he recalls, highlighting the joy of winning a cup despite the odds.
“A lot gets said about the League Cup, but you realise how enjoyable it is to win. You just want that medal around your neck.”
Slot’s Tactical Approach and the Change from Klopp’s Methods
When comparing Slot’s style to Klopp’s, Robertson notes that while Klopp built a team of “mentality monsters,” Slot is more of a tactical thinker.
“He changes a lot of things depending on the opposition and what our team needs,” Robertson explains. “Against City, we played with two No 10s and two wingers.
Under Klopp, we had a constant blueprint, but now we’re calmer on the ball, still energetic, but with a more measured approach.”
Slot’s flexibility and tactical adjustments have already paid off, and his halftime speeches have become a notable part of his coaching style.
Robertson recalls one particularly animated halftime session when Liverpool trailed Southampton, but thanks to Slot’s adjustments, the team mounted a successful comeback.
Liverpool Faces a Tough Test Against Newcastle
Today’s final against Newcastle will be a real challenge for Liverpool.
Robertson is well aware of the difficulty the Magpies pose, especially after their 3-3 draw earlier this season at St James’ Park.
With key players like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Conor Bradley out due to injury, there will be changes in the lineup, but Robertson doesn’t expect to be one of them.
“I played on the right for Scotland once and changed to the left at half-time – that probably tells you how that went!” he jokes, meaning it’s more likely that Jarell Quansah will shift from center-back to fill in at right-back.
With Slot’s leadership and the squad’s focus on winning, Liverpool is well-prepared for what lies ahead, both in today’s final and in the season’s future.