"What he did for this club was more than normal" - Arne Slot hails Jurgen Klopp for his impact on Liverpool
Newly appointed Liverpool manager Arne Slot has hailed his legendary predecessor Jurgen Klopp's impact on the club. The Dutchman took over from the German after the latter announced his departure at the end of the 2023-24 campaign.
Klopp arrived in Merseyside from Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund in October 2015. He spent nine years with the Reds, masterminding one of the most successful eras in the club's history.
At Anfield, he won a Premier League, a Champions League, an FA Cup, two EFL Cups, a FIFA Club World Cup, a UEFA Super Cup and an FA Community Shield.
Alongside the eight trophies he won, Klopp coached solid players like Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino into superstars, while unearthing talents like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Caoimhin Kelleher.
At his first press conference as Liverpool manager, Slot was asked about the 57-year-old's legacy at the club. The Dutchman said (via @JamesPearceLFC on X):
"When Jurgen arrived he said he was the normal one, but what made him special was what he left behind. What he did for this club was more than normal."
Slot added that he had already spoken to Klopp about many things which he wasn't at the liberty to disclose, saying:
"We've spoken about many things, but they stay between us. Him singing for me was special... Fans already singing for me is a good start."
Slot enjoyed a successful three-year spell in his native Netherlands with Feyenoord, winning the 2022-23 Eredivisie and the 2023-24 KNVB Cup before moving to the Premier League.
"Liverpool can win trophies" - New Reds manager Arne Slot claims that his side can be competitive in every competition
New Liverpool boss Arne Slot claimed that he 'liked to win' and that there was an 'opportunity' to win trophies at his new club. He said that the squad had a 'winning culture', which has been showcased in their success over the past few years.
Speaking at his first press conference as Reds manager, the 45-year-old was asked about replacing club legend Jurgen Klopp at the helm. He said (via Liverpool Echo):
"Big shoes to fill but you inherit a squad with a winning culture. One of the reasons to come here is I feel we have a really good team. You want to work at a club with good players and an opportunity to win something.
"The past shows Liverpool can win trophies. There is an opportunity to win something. I like to win and at this club there is an opportunity to win."
Slot will take charge of his first competitive game as Liverpool manager away at Ipswich Town in the Premier League on August 17.