As Arne Slot stepped out onto the pitch at Anfield for his first Premier League home game in charge of Liverpool, fans unfurled a banner that read, "From Bergentheim to Anfield, we got your back Arne," referencing his Dutch roots. By the end of the match, Slot was on the field, giving a thumbs up and waving to the supporters who rewarded him and his team with a standing ovation following a 2-0 victory over Brentford.
In stark contrast to the fiery celebrations that marked the Jurgen Klopp era, Slot's approach was more composed no fist pumps or ecstatic runs, just a quiet acknowledgment of the support around him. The post-Klopp era at Anfield began in a more understated but no less determined manner.
"This support is not something we take for granted," Slot remarked, reflecting on the warm reception he received at Anfield, a place where he seemed to feel right at home. He emphasized that maintaining the fans' support requires continuous effort, both on and off the pitch.
Slot had experienced a quieter introduction in his first league game against Ipswich, where he headed straight for the tunnel after the final whistle. But at Anfield, he embraced the atmosphere, understanding that being part of Liverpool means earning your place through hard work and dedication.
There was a palpable sense of anticipation as the fans welcomed Slot, with Anfield buzzing louder than usual as the new chapter began. Liverpool's owner, John W. Henry, who had flown in from Boston for Klopp's final game, was also present to witness Slot's debut at the helm.
The fans, meanwhile, waved scarves adorned with Slot's name, eager to see what the former Feyenoord coach would bring to their beloved team.
The match itself was a strong start for Slot's Liverpool. Luis Diaz opened the scoring with a beautiful finish after a quick counter-attack, and Mohamed Salah secured the win with a second-half goal.
Slot, reflecting on his first competitive experience at Anfield, noted that the fans not only appreciated the team's quality on the ball but also their relentless work ethic. "I liked what I saw, so if I like it, then mostly the fans like it," he said, summarizing what was indeed a positive day for Liverpool.
Despite the new leadership, the expectations remain high. Slot's tenure began with a solid performance Liverpool now has six points from their first two games and has yet to concede a goal. They head into next Sunday's clash against Manchester United with confidence and momentum.
Slot praised his players for returning from their summer break in excellent physical condition, ready to carry forward the club's strong traditions. "Compliments to the players for how they came back...we haven't changed much compared to the former regime, so it is not so difficult for them to start playing again," Slot remarked, pleased with how seamlessly his team has adapted.
The stats back up Slot's promising start. Liverpool completed 92% of their passes against Brentford, the highest passing accuracy they've achieved in a Premier League game since records began in 2003-04.
In his first game against Ipswich, the team managed 50 touches in the opposition box, a record for a manager's debut in the Premier League since data collection began in 2008-09.
Slot’s early success with Liverpool is a testament to his and the team's hard work. "To get a great start like this, you have to work really hard," he said, proud of the effort his players put in, particularly their defensive work that allowed them to improve as the game progressed. Although they missed chances to kill the game earlier, Slot's Liverpool looks like a team ready to build on the foundations laid by Klopp.
Although Slot might have made a strong start to life at Liverpool, his first real test will come against long time rivals Manchester United when both teams meet at Old Trafford next sunday on Matchday 3 in the Premier League.
