Liverpool’s start to the 2023-24 Premier League season has been nothing short of impressive. Under new manager Arne Slot, the Reds have won their first three league games without conceding a single goal—an achievement Jurgen Klopp managed only once during his eight-year reign.

Slot, who succeeded Klopp after the German coach’s successful tenure, came with high expectations and the challenge of maintaining Liverpool’s competitive edge, especially after Klopp’s Premier League and Champions League triumphs.

Slot’s early success has already drawn praise, with many pointing to subtle but significant tactical adjustments that have rejuvenated the team.

The former Feyenoord boss has approached his role with a calm, understated presence, but the impact of his methods is already clear.

 A Shift in Style: Control Over Chaos

One of the most noticeable changes under Slot is the team’s more measured approach to possession. Mohamed Salah, the star attacker during Klopp’s era, provided insight into this transformation, stating: “It’s quite different to before. Now we are trying to control the ball all the time.”

Under Klopp, Liverpool were known for their relentless pressing and quick transitions. The focus was on winning the ball back as high up the pitch as possible and launching swift counter-attacks. Klopp’s “gegenpressing” philosophy defined his Liverpool teams, and it led to some breathtaking football that took the club to the pinnacle of European and domestic success.

However, Salah notes that Slot has added an element of patience to the team’s play. “We’re still doing that,” he added, “but also when you have the ball you have more time to keep the ball and just try to move the ball around.”

Slot has retained the essence of Klopp’s pressing game but has implemented a more controlled style of play. More of Liverpool’s touches are now coming in their own defensive third, signaling an intent to build up play from the back.

The team’s passing accuracy has improved slightly, up to 88% from Klopp’s average of 86%. While they are seeing slightly less possession overall (57% under Slot compared to 61% under Klopp), the focus on ball retention and patience is apparent.

Tactical Adjustments and Personnel Changes

Perhaps the most significant tactical shift has come in the form of Slot’s preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, as opposed to Klopp’s signature 4-3-3. This change has introduced two defensive midfielders—Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister—who provide greater stability in front of the defense.

Meanwhile, Dominik Szoboszlai has been given a more advanced role, allowing him to be a creative force higher up the pitch.

Gravenberch, a summer signing, has excelled in the defensive midfield role, allaying concerns about the club’s failure to sign a recognized defensive specialist like Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. Slot has shown faith in Gravenberch’s intelligence and adaptability, and the Dutchman has repaid that trust with solid performances in his early outings.

Alexis Mac Allister, another key player in Slot’s system, has also contributed to Liverpool’s improved defensive structure, helping shore up the team’s leaky defense from last season.

The team has conceded far fewer shots (8 per game) compared to Klopp’s side last season (11 per game), suggesting that Slot’s adjustments are already addressing some of the issues that led to Liverpool conceding 41 league goals in the previous campaign.

The defense has also been boosted by Ibrahima Konate’s inclusion, with the Frenchman replacing Jarrell Quansah after the first half of the opening game.

Offensively, Slot’s side has been equally effective. The goals per game rate has remained consistent at 2.3, matching Klopp’s figures from last season.

Diogo Jota has emerged as the preferred choice up front over Darwin Nunez, with the Portuguese forward repaying Slot’s faith by contributing to Liverpool’s attack with both goals and assists.

A Promising Start to the Season

While it’s still early days, the signs are promising for Liverpool under Arne Slot. The team’s more patient build-up play has brought a sense of control and composure that was sometimes lacking in Klopp’s high-energy approach.

Defensively, they have been far more solid, and with Salah continuing his prolific form, the attack remains as dangerous as ever.

Liverpool’s 3-0 win over Manchester United in the early stages of the season was a statement of intent. The aggregate 7-0 scoreline across their first three games hints at the balance Slot has struck between defensive solidity and attacking fluidity.

Comparisons between Slot’s and Klopp’s styles are inevitable, but so far, Slot has managed to put his own stamp on the team while retaining the core principles that made Liverpool successful under Klopp.

With a long season ahead, it will be fascinating to see how Slot’s Liverpool evolves.

If the early signs are anything to go by, the club’s fans can be optimistic that the Dutchman may lead the Reds to further success, while giving them a slightly different style to enjoy along the way.