Arne Slot has shifted his perspective on leadership since arriving at Liverpool, stating that he no longer dismisses the concept of a leader.
This change has come as he’s started to work closely with Virgil van Dijk.
Since taking over Liverpool in the summer following Jurgen Klopp’s departure, Slot has enjoyed a remarkable start to his tenure, winning 11 of his 12 competitive matches – a club record.
A significant factor in this success has been Van Dijk, whose outstanding performances have reaffirmed his status as one of the world’s elite centre-backs.
However, Van Dijk’s impressive play has unfolded against a backdrop of uncertainty regarding his future.
The Reds’ captain is among three key players – alongside Trent Alexander-Arnold and Mohamed Salah – whose contracts are set to expire at the end of the season.
Nevertheless, Van Dijk’s importance to the squad remains undeniable, with his conduct both on and off the pitch leaving a strong impression on his new manager.
“I understand very well when people describe him as a leader,” Slot told the Dutch outlet Viaplay (as translated by Sport Witness).
“Because before I worked with Virgil, I always said I no longer believe so much in the concept of a leader.
“That is something from the past that people always talked about a leader in the team.
“When I played football myself, I always had Alfred Schreuder and Marco de Lofts.
“And Alfred is more famous than Marco.
“Who I experienced as leaders who really put us in place [and told us] what we had to do.
“As a coach, I have never experienced someone as a real leader.
“For the longest time from a coach or something.
“But Virgil, I think, is someone who constantly makes sure the boys are there and is the leader in coaching.”
“He also gives a good example of how to stand on a training field and what you have to do in the gym.
“And also, for the other players, by constantly standing up for himself.”
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