In the heart of Merseyside, a familiar tune echoes through the streets surrounding Anfield. The melody, once synonymous with the indomitable spirit of Jürgen Klopp’s Liverpool, had faded in recent years. But now, under the guidance of Arne Slot, the Reds are orchestrating a resurgence that has their passionate fanbase dreaming of another Premier League title.
Liverpool’s Early Season Dominance
Eleven games into the 2024-25 Premier League campaign, Liverpool find themselves perched atop the table, a commanding five points clear of their nearest rivals. It’s a position reminiscent of their title-winning 2019-20 season under Klopp, when they raced out to an early lead and never looked back.
The parallels are striking. In 2019, Liverpool had amassed 31 points after 11 games, having won 10 and drawn one. This season, Slot’s side boasts a record of nine wins, one draw, and one defeat, good for 28 points. The attack, spearheaded by the evergreen Mohamed Salah, has been ruthless, netting 21 goals thus far.
Slot’s Tactical Tweaks
While the results may be similar, Slot’s Liverpool is a different beast tactically. Gone is the relentless, high-octane pressing that defined Klopp’s teams. In its place is a more measured approach, one that prioritizes control and patience.
If I look at the games that are ahead they are tough. It will be a tough season in general. Margins are small, we have a margin, but it is small. Many challenges to come for us.
– Arne Slot on Liverpool’s title chances
Slot’s Liverpool is content to sit back, soak up pressure, and strike with lethal precision on the counterattack. It’s a style more reminiscent of a Jose Mourinho side than the heavy metal football of the Klopp era. But the results speak for themselves.
A Resolute Rearguard
Perhaps the most striking difference between this Liverpool and the 2019-20 vintage is the defensive solidity. In their title-winning campaign, the Reds had conceded nine goals after 11 games. This season, they’ve shipped just six.
The central defensive partnership of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté has been the bedrock upon which Liverpool’s success has been built. Shielded by the midfield duo of Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch, they’ve formed an impenetrable barrier, frustrating even the most potent of attacks.
The Road Ahead
For all their early season promise, Slot is under no illusions about the challenge that lies ahead. A daunting run of fixtures, including a crucial clash against Manchester City at Anfield, will test Liverpool’s title credentials to the limit.
But there is a quiet confidence emanating from Anfield, a belief that this team has what it takes to end the club’s Premier League title drought. With Slot at the helm and a squad brimming with talent, Liverpool fans are daring to dream once more.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on the Reds, eager to see if they can emulate the heroics of that unforgettable 2019-20 campaign. One thing is for certain: with Arne Slot in charge, Liverpool are a force to be reckoned with once again.
