Liverpool players show Arne Slot the utmost respect by avoiding Manchester United and Arsenal mistake

Arne Slot has made a promising start as Liverpool’s manager, with Reds legend John Barnes attributing some of this success to Jurgen Klopp’s legacy.

Barnes asserts that Slot has taken over an outstanding squad, which has maintained its momentum. The Dutchman succeeded Klopp earlier this year, following his successful nine-year tenure during which he led Liverpool to their first Premier League title in the 2019/20 season, alongside two League Cups, an FA Cup, and a Champions League trophy.

Slot’s early successes include a 2-0 win to start the new campaign, a victory over Brentford, and a commanding 3-0 defeat of Manchester United at Old Trafford. However, he faced his first loss against Nottingham Forest after the international break.

This setback was quickly followed by a strong 3-1 win over AC Milan in the European Cup and a 3-0 triumph against Bournemouth. Barnes believes that Klopp’s signings continue to play a vital role in Slot’s achievements, as the players are not easing up after their former manager’s exit.

Unlike Manchester United and Arsenal, which struggled after the departures of Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger, Liverpool seems to be thriving post-Klopp. Barnes shared his thoughts on Liverpool’s future during a podcast with Gary Lineker, stating: “Where do you see this current Liverpool team? Obviously it’s post-Klopp… he’s made a really good start, hasn’t he?”

Barnes noted, “Not only has he made a good start… just going around the plane with all the analysts… they’re now having a new way of playing. Playing around Ryan Gravenberch as a number six… a different type of player but more attacking, more comfortable on the ball.”

He emphasized that the players have embraced this new style, which includes a slower build-up but quick transitions. “We’ve seen when Fergie left, when Wenger left, big clubs that don’t do as well because the players relax – the big man has gone. Liverpool players haven’t done that.”

Barnes highlighted the character of Klopp’s signings, stating they recognize the importance of respecting the club and its traditions. The shift in style has particularly benefited players like Harvey Elliott and Curtis Jones, who thrive in a more ball-oriented midfield, contrasting with Klopp’s previous setup that included stronger defensive midfielders. “They’re better in possession, but they still have that transition going forward so it’s happy days.”