Former Liverpool midfielder Boudewijn Zenden warns fans to “expect changes” after Arne Slot succeeds Jurgen Klopp as the new manager
Boudewijn Zenden claimed that Liverpool should be ready for changes under Arne Slot as he succeeds legendary manager Jurgen Klopp. Klopp left Liverpool after the end of the recent season after announcing his departure in January which surprised the fanbase.
The 56-year-old cited burnout as the reason for his departure, prioritizing his mental and physical well-being alongside Liverpool’s needs. Liverpool fans are still reeling from their beloved manager’s departure as Feyenoord recently confirmed Slot’s arrival.
Under the new structure of Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes, a vigorous search for a successor to Klopp led to Slot. The Dutchman has enjoyed a steep rise in reputation in the Netherlands and a lot of success in Eredivisie.
Zenden told Stats Perform (via beIN Sports) that Liverpool would go through changes under Slot whether it’s good or bad. He said:
“I’m sure in Liverpool, they’ll keep their head up high when they go through that storm if it’s there. But no, it’s going to be a change, of course, but when Slot takes over, I hope that it’ll go down well.”
Liverpool conveyed a thorough search for a worthy successor before finally settling for Slot, convinced that he fulfilled most criteria. The Dutchman uses a philosophy similar to Klopp’s with an emphasis on attractive attacking football and the high-pressing system.
Furthermore, as Klopp has competed with rivals that spend a lot of money, Slot has worked under similar restrictions. Both managers relied on the development of youth players from the academy signing obscure players and turning them into gems.
Under Slot’s guidance, players like Santiago Gimenez, Teun Koopmeiners, Orkun Kokcu, Mats Wieffer and David Hanko enjoyed immense development. The 44-year-old has built a culture at Feyenoord that is parallel to what Klopp did at Liverpool.
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There are going to be tactical differences between the two managers as Slot has his style of play under a similar philosophy. However, the essence that made Klopp so special is uniquely unparalleled to any manager in the world of football. At the same time, Slot has those qualities while also having the age, hunger and tactical acumen to leave his legacy at Anfield.
