Arne Slot Responds to Ferguson as Liverpool Near Title | OneFootball

Arne Slot’s Understated Rise Towards Premier League Glory

Arne Slot’s inaugural season at Anfield has unfolded with calm authority, a contrast to the grandiose celebrations often associated with historic triumphs. Yet, as Liverpool sit on the brink of becoming Premier League champions once again, a subtle layer of meaning surrounds this achievement — particularly in the context of Sir Alex Ferguson’s infamous jibe about knocking Liverpool “off their perch.”

Slot’s Reaction to Ferguson’s Famous Words

In typical Slot fashion, the Dutchman appeared bemused when reminded of Ferguson’s defining ambition during his legendary Manchester United reign. When told that Liverpool’s potential 20th title carried symbolic weight, Slot replied simply:

“What is the perch?” he asked, before adding, “Ah, okay. That would be nice.”

It’s a response that captures Slot’s cool detachment from the narrative warfare that has historically defined English football’s fiercest rivalries. Unlike Jürgen Klopp, whose passion energised Anfield for nearly a decade, the 46-year-old relies on understatement and composure — traits that have served Liverpool superbly throughout this pivotal campaign.

Slot’s Reluctance to Celebrate Prematurely

With Liverpool needing just a single point against Tottenham to confirm their return to the summit, Slot remains determined to let others judge his contribution.

“It is for other people to judge me,” Slot said. “It would be a bit weird to judge myself.”

Instead, he offered praise for his backroom team, highlighting the crucial role of medical and performance staff in maintaining standards despite a punishing schedule.

“We had our injuries, but that’s what every team has because you can’t go through this league without injuries,” he continued. “We were always able to perform at our standards in terms of physicality.”

It is a humility matched by an unflinching commitment to consistency, even as Liverpool have kept themselves clear of Manchester City and Arsenal with five games to spare.

Lessons from Ferguson, Arsenal and United Rebuilds

United’s 12-year title drought since Ferguson’s retirement, and Arsenal’s two-decade wait for another Premier League crown, provide a telling backdrop to Slot’s immediate impact.

Reflecting on the broader trend of managerial transitions, Slot observed:

“The nice thing about football is that everyone can have an opinion. Because it (a rebuild) happened at Arsenal and at United everyone thinks that’s the only truth there is.”

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Slot also pointed to other managers who found success quickly, citing Barcelona’s Luis Enrique after Pep Guardiola:

“Other managers have been successful in their first season. After Pep Guardiola at Barcelona came Luis Enrique – and he won the treble as well. So it’s not impossible.”

Yet he tempers comparisons, noting that each club’s context is unique:

“It’s so hard to compare things in football, never mind comparing things 10 years on when the Premier League has changed so much.”

Family First As Slot Eyes History

Slot’s family will share in Liverpool’s potential coronation, albeit quietly. While his parents Jennie and Arend watch from Holland, others will join him at Anfield during the national holiday.

“I enjoyed it a lot when Feyenoord won the title – but I don’t go crazy,” Slot said. “It wasn’t like I ran three times around the stadium. I was just very, very happy inside and I shared my emotions with the people around me and the fans.”

If Liverpool do seal their 20th title, it will be in keeping with their manager’s ethos — success earned with steel, celebrated with grace, and remembered for its quiet brilliance.