Arne Slot’s ability to banter and make jokes could ensure he is a success at Liverpool and avoid the pitfalls Erik ten Hag has tripped into at Manchester United.
That’s at least according to the journalists at Panorama in the Netherlands, who cover the Dutch coach today ahead of his impending move to Liverpool.
The Reds have turned to Slot as the chosen man to replace Jurgen Klopp this summer.
The focus is very much on whether he is the right man for the job, with the move to Liverpool undoubtedly a major step up for him and the biggest job of his managerial career to date.
Dutch coaches have something of a mixed history in the Premier League, with some proving to be a success but others failing miserably.
Which side Erik ten Hag falls into is up for debate, with him currently struggling at Manchester United after a solid first season in charge.
One of his major issues has been communication with the press, with the Manchester United man’s perceived lack of charisma often criticised and used against him.
Panorama see no such issue with Slot, though, highlighting an interaction with former Dutch winger turned influencer Andy van der Meyde as a prime example.
“In the episode in question, Andy van der Meijde kicked in as many open doors as possible for 47 minutes, until after a round of the highway they stopped again in front of Slot’s house in Zwolle,” they explained.
“See, then it became fun. “Look at what a shack, man!” Andy said. “You can buy nice things with those 2 million euros per year at Feyenoord!”
“But Slot suddenly showed his most unpredictable side. When he got out, he suddenly said: “I really enjoyed it, if only because I don’t often sit next to bald people who have even fatter heads than me.
“Banter, that’s what they call it in England: humour the way football people prefer it. Suddenly I thought that is the only way to survive in the Premier League. If you don’t have a banter, like Erik ten Hag, you will be devoured there. Slot doesn’t have to worry about that in any way.
“Arne Slot has no shortage. In that sense, he should be able to make it at Liverpool, especially because he has just as radiant teeth as his predecessor, he doesn’t need hair.”
So there you have it, Slot will bring humour to the table.
