Liverpool have undoubtedly improved on the field under Arne Slot, and there looks to have been a modest shift in strategy behind the scenes.
The Reds were involved in a major transfer battle with Chelsea for Moises Caicedo in the summer of last year, with the South American joining the Blues for £115 million.
This is a move that does not appear to be paying off for the London club, as he has received criticism in a number of matches. Gary Neville even described Caicedo as’shocking’ in one game.
Liverpool wasn’t the only team interested in signing him; Arsenal had Caicedo as a backup plan in case Declan Rice failed to sign.
Arne Slot is very pleased with the midfielders at his disposal right now, as Ryan Gravenberch continues to prosper in the number 6 position.
James Pearce believes that Arne Slot’s philosophy differs from Jurgen Klopp’s, particularly regarding Caicedo.
People in Liverpool have told James Pearce about Arne Slot and Moises Caicedo.
Nobody can question Slot’s start to life on Merseyside, which includes a perfect start to the Premier League.
The Reds considered signing Martin Zubimendi during the summer transfer window in the hopes of deploying him in the 6 position, but he turned down the offer, therefore nothing happened.
During an appearance on the Athletic FC podcast, James Pearce explained what he was told about Liverpool’s new strategy behind the scenes.
“I spoke with someone at Liverpool last week who remarked that if they [Liverpool] had signed Caicedo last summer, would he have met Slot’s needs?
“In terms of a highly technical player who is able to operate in really tight spaces and is press-resistant and is so good at finding space between the lines, things that Gravenberch did on Sunday.”
How has Ryan Gravenberch fared this season?
Gravenberch, as Liverpool fans will know, has already been one of the team’s unexpected bright spots this season.
Gabriel Agbonlahor praised Gravenberch for his performance against Manchester United, even suggesting that he may have retired Casemiro in the process.
Missing out on Zubimendi has actually been a blessing in disguise, as he would have likely started in the 6 position, halting the Dutchman’s growth.
Wataru Endo is another possibility in that position, but he struggled at times last season and is definitely underrated by Slot, who chose Gravenberch over him.
