Liverpool star offers true thoughts on Arne Slot after Jurgen Klopp exit

Liverpool star Harvey Elliott has heaped praise on new head coach Arne Slot, describing the experience of working with him as “amazing”. Slot took over the reins at Liverpool in May after Jurgen Klopp stepped down from his role following a nine-year tenure.

Despite the daunting task of filling Klopp’s shoes, Slot has led the team to an unbeaten pre-season, including victories over Arsenal and Manchester United. Elliott, who moved to Liverpool from Fulham in 2019 and won multiple trophies under Klopp, is confident that Slot possesses the “mentality” required for the Reds to keep competing at the highest level. Elliott has also been impressed by Slot’s meticulous approach to training and in-game management, reports the Mirror.

He told Sky Sports: “It’s been amazing. He’s come in and instantly you can see the detail he goes into in training sessions and about games, and he’s always looking to try and improve us as players. All in all, all of us are here to win trophies and he has that mentality as well.”

Although Slot has a record of success with Feyenoord, including an Eredivisie title and the KNVB Cup, steering Liverpool to Premier League triumph will be a distinct challenge. Yet, Elliott is convinced that Slot’s rapport with the team could be their ticket to victory.

“I feel like it’s a great connection between staff and players,” he said. “We all want the same thing and we’re all pushing towards it. They just want to make us the best possible players we can be.”

Under Klopp, Liverpool was synonymous with frenetic ‘heavy-metal’ football, often partaking in goal-laden, chaotic fixtures. Contrastingly, Slot advocates for more controlled play through possession, and Elliott insists the squad needs to wholly embrace their new head coach’s philosophy.

“We just need to trust what he’s telling us and his style of play, and the information he gives us,” Elliott said. “He’s the man in charge and hopefully he can lead us to success.”

Slot’s pre-season efforts have already earned him plaudits from Liverpool supporters. His tactical acumen was on display during their tour of the USA, where fans witnessed firsthand Slot’s posession based approach, however he also gave an insight into his demanding nature.

After a triumphant tour, Slot said: “Of course, people will naturally look towards the results we had in our friendly matches, and it is true that we enjoyed some good wins against some strong opponents. But I also have high standards, and while I saw lots of things I liked from the team in the USA, I am aware too that there are many areas in which we can, and must, improve and develop.”

Reds fans will be eagerly anticipating their side’s first competitive fixture under Slot. The much-awaited clash will see Liverpool take on Ipswich at Portman Road this Saturday, with kick-off set for 12:30pm.