While 2024 marked the end of Jürgen Klopp's tenure at Liverpool, it might also be remembered for the dawn of a new era. On January 26th, fans were shocked by the unexpected news of Klopp's departure. Now, in late December, a revitalized team, demonstrating greater patience and less flamboyance while maintaining their effectiveness, appears poised to replicate Klopp's greatest triumphs.
The connection between Klopp and his former players remains strong. Curtis Jones, upon reaching his 100th Premier League appearance against Leicester on Boxing Day, only became aware of the milestone after receiving congratulations from his former manager. Klopp's return to the public eye next week as head of global football for Red Bull, observing games and engaging with the media, will be a sight that takes some adjusting to.
Despite the bittersweet parting, Klopp's legacy includes a robust and dynamic squad. Arne Slot inherited a team with a lingering hunger for success, adding his own tactical nuances and refinements, and exceeding expectations in a scenario where many clubs have faltered during transitions. Liverpool currently leads both the Premier League and the Champions League cumulative table.
Should Slot guide Liverpool to the Premier League title, he will eclipse even Bob Paisley's rapid revitalization of Bill Shankly's team five decades ago. The question arises: who can challenge them? Manchester City seems to be in decline, while Arsenal and Chelsea have little room for error. All this with Slot having only one notable signing in Federico Chiesa, who had been somewhat overlooked.
Sidelined for two months due to injury and now reinstated as Slot's first-choice goalkeeper, Alisson acknowledges the unexpected nature of their success. "If we had envisioned this at the season's start, with the current points tally and league position, we would have readily accepted it," admits the Brazilian. "When Arne took over, everyone anticipated a difficult task in replacing a manager like Jürgen. However, he is demonstrating his capabilities and bringing numerous positive aspects."
Slot's management of Alisson exemplifies his diplomatic approach, decisiveness, and willingness to utilize his entire squad. When Alisson was injured at Crystal Palace in October, Slot confidently played Caoimhín Kelleher, highlighting the team's depth, but never wavered in his support for Alisson, even with Kelleher's excellent performances. Alisson was reinstated upon regaining full fitness. "I was eager to return, especially with the team performing so well, which further fueled my excitement to contribute," he says.
In contrast to his manager, who despite outward confidence maintains it's premature to discuss the title, Alisson doesn't shy away from Liverpool's primary ambition. "It's our aim, our target," he states. "We can't afford to fixate on the points; we must concentrate on each upcoming opponent. That's the necessary mindset we currently possess. We understand how swiftly the Premier League can shift in just two games."
Alisson's words are tempered by Liverpool's past disappointments as title contenders, including the previous season. "The setbacks have been valuable learning experiences. We can draw lessons from last season, but we're in a different situation now. All players are fully committed and fit, with only a few injuries. Everyone available is in excellent condition."
The last time Liverpool held such a commanding position was during the 2019-20 season under Klopp, when they seized the Premier League title from Manchester City. The COVID-19 pandemic curtailed celebrations that were already underway when lockdowns were imposed. "The two teams are distinct," says Alisson. "Some players remain, but our style has evolved, with more emphasis on possession. Previously, it was direct, with rapid transitions and high intensity. We also won the Champions League the season before. There's no real comparison between the two situations."
Instead, there's a sense of rejuvenation, demonstrating that Klopp's departure, though still painful, doesn't preclude future success. Change can be beneficial. Alisson, a senior figure in the squad, speaks openly and enthusiastically about the new Liverpool. "I want to emphasize the team's commitment, the players' dedication to fulfilling the manager's instructions, their daily hard work, and their desire for continuous improvement, to become a better team and achieve great things for this club."
"We have different players, a different manager, and far more differences than similarities. We shouldn't compare ourselves to past teams; we must forge our own history. This season, this group needs to create its own legacy. We won't erase our past achievements, which were truly special and will forever be etched in the club's history."
