Slot: Though Klopp’s successor, I’m not an exact replica

In his first interview with the club’s official website, Slot discusses taking over from Klopp as Liverpool manager.

Are you able to relax on holiday?

“No! I think a coach, whether it’s me or someone else, doesn’t really relax. Of course, the last few weeks have been nice because I could look back on the great times at Feyenoord and look forward to joining a club like Liverpool. So, some summers are less enjoyable because that’s just the life of a former football player and coach, but this summer has been really nice because I left Feyenoord on good terms and I’m coming to a club where Klopp has had such great success. So, yes, it’s been a good summer already.”

Was it important for you to speak with Klopp?

“Yes. When someone has worked at a club for nine years and been so successful, you definitely want to learn everything about the club from them, and also about the players. He gave me a lot of good advice, but what impressed me most was how happy he was for me. I think he’s also said in the media that from now on he’ll be my biggest fan because he supports Liverpool in the best way possible, and that’s not a common situation.”

Are there similarities between your style and Klopp’s?

“I think there are, and I think that’s partly why I’m here. I don’t believe Liverpool were looking for an identical type of coach; they were looking for someone who could continue their successful tactical system. That might be one reason they came to me.”

The Premier League season is eight weeks away. What are your priorities for the next eight weeks?

“In pre-season, it’s all about getting the players adjusted, getting your ideas, your game model, into their heads. As you’ve mentioned, the approach won’t be entirely different. But it would be strange if we did exactly the same thing, because although I’m Klopp’s successor, I’m not an exact copy of him.”