“Trying to Close the Gap” – Arne Slot on Liverpool’s Potential Premier League Title Chase | OneFootball

Arne Slot’s Pragmatic Approach to Liverpool’s Premier League Ambitions

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has injected a fresh perspective into the Reds’ early Premier League campaign. Despite an impressive start to the season, the Dutchman remains grounded, cautious about overestimating Liverpool’s title credentials before they face sterner tests. Slot’s measured approach highlights his belief in long-term evaluation rather than snap judgments based on early results.

Strong Start, But Caution Remains

Liverpool have enjoyed a strong opening, winning four of their first five Premier League matches. They currently sit just a point behind league leaders Manchester City. However, Slot is quick to downplay any premature title talk. “I know how good we are, but we still have to prove things when the fixtures are coming,” Slot remarked ahead of Liverpool’s clash with Wolves. He further added, “after the international break, we go into tougher fixtures than we have now.”

Photo: IMAGO

Slot’s observation is that Liverpool’s true test will come after facing some of the Premier League’s elite teams. Although Liverpool defeated Manchester United, Slot is conscious that sterner challenges await with upcoming fixtures against Chelsea and Arsenal. These matches will provide a better benchmark of his side’s quality.

Premier League’s Unique Depth

The former Feyenoord boss is quick to note the difference in competition between the Eredivisie and the Premier League. “One thing I noticed in the Premier League compared to the league I have come from is that every team has a few players who cost £40m-£50m and have a lot of quality,” Slot explained.

The depth and quality throughout the league mean that no match can be taken lightly. In his previous role at Feyenoord, Slot could face teams with far fewer resources and a lower calibre of players. Now, in the Premier League, even the so-called ‘smaller’ teams possess the capability to pull off surprises. Slot highlighted this by saying, “with the Premier League, every team can buy players for a lot of money, so you can never feel that the game is yours.”

Title Race Beyond Liverpool for Now?

Although Liverpool fans have begun to dream of silverware, Slot is pragmatic about where his team stands in comparison to Manchester City. “The situation is Manchester City have taken 30 or more points from us in the last two seasons. So that is the situation as it is and we’re trying to close that gap,” Slot acknowledged.

His realism underlines his primary focus: reducing the gulf between Liverpool and the reigning champions. While City and Arsenal may be the primary focus of title chatter, Slot insists that Liverpool’s focus remains internal, aiming to make gradual improvements throughout the season.

Alisson Returns, Boosting Liverpool’s Defence

In a welcome boost for Liverpool, goalkeeper Alisson is expected to return for the trip to Wolves, having missed the previous two matches due to a hamstring injury. Slot confirmed the Brazilian’s progress in training, stating, “We think he is [available]. He trained yesterday as part of our session with the group, so we are expecting him to do the whole session today.”

While backup goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher deputised admirably, keeping a clean sheet in Liverpool’s win over Bournemouth, Slot emphasised the importance of having options. “Caoimh did really well in the two games he played for us,” Slot remarked, reflecting his satisfaction with Liverpool’s depth in goalkeeping talent.

Patience Key for Slot’s Liverpool

Arne Slot’s Liverpool are undoubtedly off to a promising start, but the manager’s reluctance to entertain title talk too early in the season speaks volumes. His approach suggests a long-term vision, with a recognition of the challenges that lie ahead. For Slot, the Premier League is a marathon, not a sprint, and only after facing all the league’s toughest opponents will he judge his side’s true potential.