Liverpool's search for a new manager earlier this year ended with the appointment of Arne Slot, leaving many fans and pundits wondering why the highly-rated Ruben Amorim was overlooked. Former Liverpool defender, Jamie Carragher, has shed light on this decision, suggesting that tactical compatibility played a significant role.
Carragher emphasized that continuity in playing styles was a key factor behind Liverpool’s managerial choice. Under Jurgen Klopp's long tenure, Liverpool committed to a tactical system featuring a back four. This setup became deeply ingrained across all levels of the club - from the first team down to the academy.
In an article, Carragher highlighted how crucial it was for any transition to respect and maintain these established systems at the club. This sentiment is shared by many who follow Liverpool’s tactical developments closely.
Liverpool legend, Jamie Carragher, said:
“My suspicion is that one of the reasons Liverpool favoured Slot over Amorim last summer is because the Dutchman prefers the more traditional four at the back, so the transition was easier for the squad he inherited,”
Why Ruben Amorim didn't make the cut
Ruben Amorim is known for his dynamic and somewhat unorthodox approach to football management. He typically favours a three-at-the-back formation which has brought him considerable success including ending Sporting's 19-year wait for a league title.
However, this posed potential disruption to Liverpool’s established playing style which is tailored around a four-back system. According to Carragher’s analysis, it seems that Liverpool were unwilling to overhaul their successful system - one that had led them to both Champions League victory and Premier League title under Klopp - even if it meant overlooking such an accomplished manager as Amorim.
Seamless integration of Arne Slot
On the other hand, Arne Slot offered something different yet familiar. Making waves with Feyenoord at the time of his appointment at Anfield, Slot presented an approach more aligned with Klopp’s philosophy.
His tactical acumen and adaptability made him an ideal candidate to ensure that the club continued on a familiar path. Since taking over, Slot has been praised for his smooth integration and the continuation of Liverpool’s strategic approaches. This seamless transition would likely have been more challenging under Amorim’s radically different style.
While Ruben Amorim's managerial prowess is undeniable, it was Arne Slot's tactical compatibility with Liverpool's established system that ultimately won him the position. As Carragher suggests, continuity in playing styles and respect for established systems were key factors in this decision - a testament to Liverpool's commitment to maintaining their successful formula.
