Mohamed Salah praises new manager Arne Slot for transforming Liverpool in his debut Premier League season, leading them to a title triumph with a fresh competitive edge and open communication.
Liverpool [UK], May 11:
Liverpool winger Mohamed Salah has opened up about the remarkable transformation under new manager Arne Slot, admitting he was “surprised” by how quickly the Dutch tactician led the team to Premier League glory in his debut season.
Slot, who replaced Jurgen Klopp after the legendary manager’s eight-and-a-half-year spell at Anfield ended in the summer of 2024, faced immense expectations from fans and pundits alike. Yet, in a dazzling debut campaign, Slot guided Liverpool to lift the Premier League title — capped by a commanding 5-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur at the end of April.
Speaking to ESPN, Salah reflected on the journey and his initial expectations under the new leadership.
“I didn’t expect us to win so quickly. Who could have predicted that the transition would be successful so quickly? No one, I think,” said Salah.
“In preseason, Arne came to see me and asked me to be an example for the other players. I told him not to worry because I’m always at my best, not to set an example, but because that’s who I am.”
Salah, Liverpool’s attacking linchpin, has been in sublime form this season, registering 28 goals and currently leading the race for the Premier League Golden Boot. He acknowledged that the responsibilities handed to him by Slot — particularly the emphasis on running and leadership — played a pivotal role in his performances.
“He told me what he expected of me in the game, with a lot of responsibilities in running, which I liked,” he added.
Having played under both Klopp and Slot, Salah also noted a clear contrast in their managerial styles.
“Arne is very direct. He re-established the competitive level, whereas with Jurgen, we were perhaps a little too much in our comfort zone towards the end.”
“Arne and his staff are more open to discussion, to sharing feelings — I think that was important in my performances. And, above all, it led us to success.”
Salah’s comments offer insight into how Slot’s fresh and communicative approach rejuvenated the team. The Egyptian forward’s role extended beyond scoring goals; he emerged as a mentor and motivator within the dressing room during the transitional phase.
Liverpool’s next test comes against title challengers Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday, where Slot’s side will look to maintain their dominance and Salah will aim to further solidify his claim for the Golden Boot.
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