Liverpool manager Arne Slot has clarified his post-match comments regarding Manchester United, following Liverpool’s 2-1 defeat. Despite initial frustration, Slot has since expressed respect for United’s tactics, labelling them as part of a “very smart game plan” executed by Ruben Amorim.
After the match, Slot appeared to be somewhat discontented, attributing Liverpool’s losing streak now extended to four matches – to United’s defensive style and strategic long balls. He initially remarked on the challenge presented by facing a low block, especially when Liverpool conceded early: “It’s always tough against a low block and a team playing long balls. It’s even tougher when you’re down a goal so early with an injured player on the ground.”
Ahead of their Champions League clash with Eintracht Frankfurt, Slot offered further clarification through an interview with TNT Sports. He acknowledged that his remarks were intended as an explanation, not criticism. “There was a bit of a debate over what I said after the game, but it was meant to be a compliment… they had a low block and played a lot of long balls. I was asked why it was difficult, and that was the reason,” Slot explained.
He further articulated, “It wasn’t criticism; I was trying to explain why the game was made difficult. After they play it long, there are 11 men behind the ball. I would add, in a way, I was positive about the number of chances we created.”
Reflecting on past strategies, Slot mentioned previous successes against teams like Crystal Palace that also employed low block tactics. However, he noted that few matches under his leadership have seen Liverpool overcome the challenges presented by a 5-4-1 formation as effectively.
“It was a very smart game plan, and certainly their last three signings – two of them for sure – had an impact on the game, in [Matheus] Cunha and [Bryan] Mbeumo,” he added.
Despite struggling to convert these opportunities into goals against United, Slot acknowledged the need for tactical adaptations in facing future opposition employing similar defences, especially as teams look to disrupt the reigning Premier League champions.
As Liverpool seems to grapple with countering low block defences, Slot may well consider tactical adjustments to reclaim dominance in the Premier League.