Liverpool manager, Arne Slot, has reflected on Arsenal’s Premier League title triumph and what he describes as a shift in how modern football is being decided.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the final round of Premier League fixtures, the Dutch coach analysed the tactical strengths that powered Mikel Arteta’s side to the title and ended their long wait for a league crown.
Arsenal were confirmed as champions of England for the first time in 22 years after Manchester City failed to beat Bournemouth.
Slot pointed to the Gunners’ effectiveness from set pieces as a key factor in their success.
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“But for me, they have been a different champion than the last time,” Slot observed.
“The last 10 seasons, this league has been won by other teams, first of all because it’s the first time in 30 years that a team has 40% of their goals have from set pieces.”
Arsenal’s numbers back the claim, with the side scoring a league-high 22 goals from set-piece situations during the campaign.
Slot also praised their overall tactical discipline, particularly without the ball, echoing views previously expressed by Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique.
“Luis Enrique said, and I completely agree, they are by far the best team off the ball in our league, but I also think in Europe,” Slot stated.
Looking ahead, he said Liverpool must adapt to the changing demands of the league if they are to challenge again next season.
He said, “Football has changed, has evolved, and we have to make sure that we are able next season again to compete with Arsenal and with City with our own brand of football.
“We have to find the right balance, but we have to know and understand that football has evolved.”
Slot, who guided Liverpool to the title in his first spell before a dip in form in his second season, will now look to rebuild and mount another challenge next term.
