Mail Evaluation of Slot: Bringing Soft Rock Style to Liverpool, Calm and Unaffected by External Interference

On August 18th, in the first round of the Premier League, Liverpool easily beat Ipswich Town 2-0 to start the season on a high note. The Daily Mail commented on Slot’s coaching debut, stating that his style is not heavy metal but rather brings a soft rock style to the Reds.                                             

Slot has instilled a style in Liverpool that is not heavy metal, but soft rock. Liverpool controlled possession for long periods on the pitch, seeking opportunities to score. Slot lined up with a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Szoboszlai behind Jota, which meant that despite Ipswich having an advantage in central defense, it provided significant space for Salah and Diaz on the flanks.

Slot’s demeanor was calm, whether it was before the game when the announcer tried to stir up the atmosphere with enthusiasm, or when Ipswich posed a considerable challenge to Liverpool in the first half, he stood there calmly with his hands in his pockets, his facial expression unchanged.

Salah was named Man of the Match, and Arnold also performed excellently in ball control, but what pleased Klopp the most was Gravenberch, who strengthened Liverpool’s midfield defense, appearing very confident.

Liverpool maintained a clean sheet throughout the preseason and continued this trend in the first round of the Premier League. Konsa was substituted at halftime due to being at a disadvantage against Draper in defense. After Konate came on, Liverpool’s backline became even more stable.