Liverpool boss Arne Slot has been likened to Jurgen Klopp by Dan Abrahams, a renowned sports psychologist who worked closely with the Dutch coach for two years.
Abrahams joined Feyenoord as a consultant psychologist during the season Slot led the team to Eredivisie glory.
Now, reflecting on his time with the 45-year-old, Abrahams has shared valuable insights into Slot’s approach to football.
Speaking on FC Bullard, Abrahams described Slot as a “football obsessive” with a keen focus on critical thinking.
When asked about Slot’s personality and coaching style, Abrahams said: “Respecting his privacy and respecting what I can talk about in terms of my job at Feyenoord… [Slot is] intelligent, a football obsessive, a tactical obsessive.
“[He’s] very, very smart from that perspective and I think, most importantly, open-minded.
“We talk a lot these days about marginal gains in sport and all of that is great and true, but you can’t just bring anything and everything in otherwise there does become too much noise.
“He’s a critical thinker and I had a good relationship with him in as much as he gave me permission to be straightforward with him and provide appropriate feedback and ideas, but he didn’t just take on board anything.
“He pushed back, he checked and challenged what I had to say and stretched me just like Eddie Jones did at England Rugby.
“I think the best coaches are the ones who are open-minded, but won’t just take anything on board.
“It was a privilege and an honour to get the opportunity to work with him and I’m excited to see how it goes.
“I’m not a Liverpool fan, but I’ve worked with Liverpool players in the past and I’m excited to see how it goes.”
Abrahams highlighted a key similarity between Slot and his predecessor Klopp, emphasizing their exceptional man-management skills as a major strength.
“He’s going to have to use all of his managerial skill and tactical skill. It would be remiss of me not to say he’s a very, very good people person like Klopp,” Abrahams added.
“He gets on with his players, motivational, well-spoken and his English is very good which is going to help.”
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