Liverpool legend outlines ‘important barometer’ that could determine Arne Slot’s time at Anfield

Liverpool legend John Barnes believes that Jurgen Klopp is leaving a formidable squad for Arne Slot that will only improve

John Barnes asserted that incoming head coach Arne Slot is inheriting an incredible squad from the current Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp. The Reds enjoyed a great season until mid-March when they suffered a drastic drop in form, costing them multiple trophies.

Liverpool showed glimpses of vulnerability with complacency in the both defensive and offensive phases of the game throughout this season. They conceded early goals while wasting an ample amount of goalscoring chances in the attacking phases which only escalated recently.

Many mitigating factors played a role as the morale dropped and the team ran out of ideas. The Reds suffered from poor refereeing, match-scheduling and an injury crisis throughout the season. Many pundits and football fans believed Liverpool would merely challenge for the top four at the start of the season.

Barnes expressed his optimism (h/t Daily Star) for the current squad and the vast room for improvement that remains. He said:

“If you look at how competitive they are in the league, which is the most important barometer for consistency, with a whole new team and a whole new profile of player and then you look at the age of these players. Over the next few years, if this group stays together, they will only improve.”

The drastic transition under Klopp is nothing short of remarkable and helps the incoming manager Slot with room for improvement. Slot has earned respect in his home country, working with a similar philosophy and style that Klopp applies at Anfield.

The 45-year-old believes in developing players within his style of play and harnessing their talent to the maximum. Slot enjoyed success in both the domestic league and at the European level with Feyenoord, establishing as a fan favourite.

Liverpool are expecting their new head coach to follow the culture that Klopp set at Anfield during his legendary tenure. The culture that balances the development of young players from the academy with the ambition to challenge for major trophies.

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Nevertheless, Slot would need Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes to back him and fill the gaps in the current squad. Liverpool doesn’t require major changes unless senior players decide to follow new challenges elsewhere for themselves.