The start of Liverpool’s season is promising, but many observers are questioning the team’s real ability to position itself as a contender for the Premier League title. Arne Slot, the current manager of the Reds, remains cautious and emphasizes the need to prove his team’s worth against formidable opponents.
An impressive start
Since the beginning of his tenure, Liverpool has recorded six victories in their first seven matches, an achievement that had not been accomplished since Tom Watson in 1896. If the team manages to achieve a fifth clean sheet in their next match against the Wolverhampton Wanderers, they will set a new club record by conceding only one goal during the first six matches of the season.
Slot’s caution
However, Arne Slot reminds that the path to the title is still fraught with challenges. He highlights a favorable schedule for his start, but he believes it is too early to label Liverpool as genuine title contenders. With 18 goals scored in competition, Slot admits that tough matches are on the horizon after the international break, particularly against Chelsea, Arsenal, Brighton, and Aston Villa.
He also notes the quality of the players in the league, asserting that each team has several players valued between 40 and 50 million euros, making every match difficult. According to him, it is inaccurate to draw hasty conclusions about the standings after only a few matches. He cites the example of Wolverhampton, who had to face top-level teams like Arsenal and Newcastle, which should not be overlooked.
A battle for the title
Arne Slot cares little about external perceptions regarding the title race, often described as a duel between Manchester City and Arsenal. His primary goal remains to reduce the points gap with the champions. Over the last two seasons, Liverpool finished 22 and then 9 points behind Manchester City, which further motivates the coach to optimize his team’s performances.
He concludes by stating that it does not matter to him whether Liverpool is underestimated or overestimated, as the real challenge lies in the ability to close the points gap that remains significant.
Source : www.theguardian.com