Liverpool have been pushing to bring Feyenoord boss Arne Slot to Anfield as a replacement for Jurgen Klopp, and Richard Keys believes they could be making the same mistake Manchester United made by appointing fellow Dutch manager Erik ten Hag.
It appears that the Reds are closing in on finding Klopp’s successor, with a deal agreed with Feyenoord for Slot. Appointing the 45-year-old will be a risk, with Erik ten Hag’s move to Old Trafford a comparable appointment, with both managers achieving success in Holland but not elsewhere.
Although ten Hag won a trophy in his first season at Manchester United, they’ve failed to progress this season. It might be a lazy comparison to make due to both coaches being Dutch and plying their trade in the Eredivisie, but there’s no doubt they’ve had a similar journey to the Premier League, if Slot does arrive in England.
Writing in his weekly blog, presenter Keys has provided his verdict on the pending appointment at Anfield, suggesting that Liverpool could be making the same mistake as United by bringing in Slot…
“I mention it because I believe Liverpool are about to make the same mistakes that United did. Arne ten Slot. Really? Not for me. And I’m not alone. There isn’t a Liverpool fan that I’ve spoken to isn’t totally underwhelmed by the news ten Slot is going to replace Klopp. Ok. Let’s cut him some slack. I accept we don’t know. It could turn out to be an inspired appointment.
“But I’m not convinced. Why ten Slot? (I know that’s not his name but he’s mini-me isn’t he?). I guarantee you we’ll hear all the same things they said about ten Hag when Liverpool finally unveil their man. What you won’t hear is an admission that he wasn’t first choice. Or that his record in Holland isn’t even as good as ten Hag’s was.”
Slot’s record in the Eredivisie is impressive, but he’s only managed in his home country so far. Stepping up to not only the Premier League, but one of the biggest clubs in world football, could be a huge challenge for the 45-year-old.
