Arne Slot Sparks Liverpool Fan Fury With Shocking "Worth More" Declaration
Liverpool boss Arne Slot has disclosed that he values playing "beautiful football" more than securing trophies, a statement that might frustrate fans already concerned about the club's notable downturn following last season's Premier League campaign.
After achieving success with the squad he took over from Anfield icon Jürgen Klopp, Slot has begun implementing his own vision on a transformed Liverpool side, though results have yet to materialize.
In the end, outcomes are paramount in any sport, particularly for a club with Liverpool's extraordinarily successful heritage. However, Slot appears to believe the "most important thing" isn't winning silverware.
"As a coach, you might claim the league, Champions League, FA Cup or League Cup, but the most significant achievement is being able to showcase the most attractive football for spectators," he stated on The Reds Roundtable, an official club podcast.
Slot, who sat alongside sporting director Richard Hughes and FSG chief executive Billy Hogan, even recognized that supporters might not appreciate hearing this perspective.
"Though, right now, supporters might disagree somewhat. It is definitely something I am striving toward," the Dutch manager explained.
"I consistently want possession, I want intensity and want supporters to enjoy what they witness. Not all our supporters find it entertaining to watch and the most challenging aspect is I completely understand, I share their view. Silverware is important but being a team, organization or manager that represents quality football, is ultimately more valuable long-term."
Liverpool Optimistic About Future Under Arne Slot
Liverpool Optimistic About Future Under Arne Slot
In the same recording, Hughes provided his backing for Slot during what has been a period of adjustment. The former midfielder showed faith that, since Liverpool have selected players deemed suitable for the vision, success will eventually materialize.
"As long as the players are the correct choices initially, and we are completely certain each time we recruit someone that they are, then the displays on the field will rapidly improve," he stated.
Hughes also revealed a patience-focused strategy from the organization regarding the developing squad performing on the pitch: "You want to be present to assist them and not overwhelm them with pressure, allow them to establish their own rhythm."
The sporting director maintains a comparable philosophy with Slot, giving the Dutchman space to operate, instead of attempting to control every situation.
"Naturally we discuss football and displays but I consistently allow Arne to guide that," Hughes said, who noted that "always choosing the appropriate moment" to share his perspective is "essential."