Liverpool fans are likely to see Arne Slot’s first season as manager surpass the success of Jurgen Klopp’s debut, given Klopp faced significant challenges when he took charge at Anfield in 2015.
During his initial season, the former Borussia Dortmund manager secured an eighth-place finish—a result that would be deemed disappointing for Slot’s team by 2024’s standards. Nevertheless, Klopp gradually led the team to success over subsequent seasons. In contrast, Slot inherits a strong squad following Klopp’s departure, whereas the 57-year-old manager had to address several issues upon his arrival, including offloading players like Luis Alberto, who was initially loaned out twice before being sold permanently a year into Klopp’s tenure.
Luis Alberto, who cost Liverpool £6.8 million in 2013, struggled to make an impact at Anfield and is now largely forgotten. The Spanish midfielder, now 31, only managed 12 appearances and one assist for Liverpool before being moved on during Klopp’s early days. With no goals to his name and a disappointing stint in the Premier League, Alberto’s tenure at Liverpool is considered a significant failure, culminating in his sale to Lazio for £4.3 million, marking an expected end to his time at the club.
Since leaving Liverpool, Alberto has revitalized his career in Italy and is currently performing exceptionally well at Al-Duhail SC, surpassing even Mohamed Salah’s early Premier League form this season.
