Arne Slot is eager to make his mark at Liverpool by securing silverware, acknowledging that while style and entertainment are important, success is ultimately measured by trophies. The Dutchman is determined to lead his side to Wembley for the first time, needing to overturn a 1-0 deficit against Tottenham in the Carabao Cup semi-final.
Despite never having visited Wembley, Slot understands the significance of reaching the iconic stadium, particularly for a final. Liverpool has a strong history in the competition, having won it last season by defeating Chelsea 1-0 in extra time. The club’s frequent appearances at Wembley have led supporters to nickname it “Anfield South,” emphasizing their dominance in cup competitions. Slot recognizes the challenge ahead but is focused on securing a place in the final.
He has emphasized the importance of playing an exciting and engaging style of football, wanting fans to leave matches eager for the next one. While he acknowledges that managers are primarily judged on trophies, he places equal value on his team’s work ethic and performance. His goal is to ensure the team plays in a way that excites supporters while also delivering results.
Liverpool did not make any signings in the January transfer window, shifting their recruitment strategy toward the summer. A significant concern for the club is the contractual situations of key players Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose deals expire at the end of the season. The latter is also sidelined for the upcoming match against Tottenham due to injury. Slot and the club remain vigilant in their preparations, aware of the potential squad changes that could occur in the coming months.
Slot has called for an expansion of match-day squads from 20 to 23 players to better manage the demanding fixture schedule, particularly for teams competing in multiple competitions. He believes that the current restrictions make it difficult to maintain squad harmony, as some players are regularly left out despite being fit and available. His recent omission of Federico Chiesa and Joe Gomez from the squad that faced Bournemouth highlighted the issue, reinforcing his argument that increasing squad numbers would benefit both players and coaches.
He has also expressed skepticism about referees making live announcements regarding VAR decisions, a practice trialed in the Carabao Cup semi-finals. He believes that putting referees under additional scrutiny could increase pressure from home crowds, potentially influencing future decisions. The first leg against Spurs saw this in action when a goal by Dominic Solanke was ruled out, but the system had no authority to intervene when Lucas Bergvall avoided a second yellow card before scoring the winner.
Slot remains focused on guiding Liverpool through the second leg, knowing that reaching Wembley would be a significant step toward his first trophy with the club. With a competitive squad and a clear vision for success, he hopes to establish himself as a leader capable of continuing the club’s tradition of winning major honors.
