Liverpool is feeling upbeat about Arne Slot slipping into Jurgen Klopp's shoes without a stumble, with CEO Billy Hogan insisting that a Champions League is a must — but also something that should be more than realistic.
With a flurry of changes including the return of Michael Edwards as FSG's CEO of football and Richard Hughes stepping in as sporting director from Bournemouth, the Kop side has given their management landscape a facelift. But Hogan is not anticipating a drop-off despite the loss of a legendary figure.
On the subject, Hogan shared: "From Arne's perspective he understands the goals of the club and we all share those goals which are ultimately driving towards success. We want to win trophies. Champions League qualification is something that is a goal at the start of every season. He certainly understands that."
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He added, with a nod to Klopp's legacy: "I think Arne acknowledges that in the sense that he's got a very strong squad and he's come in to take that forward. Jurgen wanted to make sure that when he left, he left the club in a great spot and he has."
Under Klopp's reign, Liverpool notched up a Premier League title, a Champions League crown, an FA Cup, and a duo of League Cups. It's now on Slot's shoulders to echo that success and ensure Liverpool stays neck and neck with heavyweights like Manchester City and Arsenal, both domestically and in Europe.
Hogan is all in on Liverpool's new direction, confident that the post-Klopp era will maintain the club's competitive edge. "Yeah of course," Hogan affirmed when questioned about the potential for a decline following Klopp's departure. He sees change as a doorway to opportunity and is excited about the fresh tactics and ideas being introduced.
"He said it in his press conference that it is not a massive change," Hogan continued. "But there are going to be unique elements to the system that he played versus the system that we played before and it is always to take the club forward."
The Reds have a busy schedule ahead with clashes against Arsenal and Manchester United later this week, wrapping up their US pre-season tour. Slot's Anfield debut is set for Sunday, August 11, when Sevilla visits, setting the stage for the Premier League kick-off against Ipswich Town.
Liverpool bounced back from a 1-0 loss to Preston North End in a closed-door friendly , securing a 1-0 victory over Real Betis in Pittsburgh last Friday . Dominik Szoboszlai netted the winner in a match featuring mainly fringe players and young talents from the academy.
Liverpool.com says: The Champions League has to be the minimum requirement for the Reds every single season. That should be more than attainable for Slot, though.
For Liverpool to miss out, it would not only have to get considerably worse, but it would also need Aston Villa, Spurs or someone else to dramatically improve. The top four feels a safe bet for 2024/25; indeed, the aim will be much more lofty than that.
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