The Reds took on the Gunners in what looked like a slightly daunting task for Slot so early into his tenure.
However, like everything he has encountered at Anfield so far, the new head coach met the task full-on. Liverpool were 2-0 ahead after 34 minutes and ended up with a 2-1 win.
Although it is only pre-season and Arsenal weren’t quite at full strength, the result should be a confidence booster to Slot and his first-team squad.
Now the more senior manager in Premier League terms when Arsenal meet Liverpool, Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has given his take on what he saw from the Reds in Philadelphia.
Mikel Arteta gives Arne Slot verdict
Arteta has spoken warmly about Slot already following the Dutchman being appointed at Liverpool.
The Spaniard always had a good relationship with Jurgen Klopp, too, and despite his Evertonian past has always treated the Reds with real respect.
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Despite that respect, though, Arteta often looks possessed as he marches up and down the touchline and outside of his technical area. His will to win is insatiable. It will have hurt to lose this one, if only a little.
Of course, Arteta and Arsenal have only just recently started to have anything like a good record against Liverpool.
Having been beaten many times over by Klopp’s version of the Reds, Arteta spoke to his post-match press conference about what he had started to notice from Slot’s Liverpool.
“We all have to start competing and earn our right to show how good we are but yes, the team is looking good in the games that I’ve watched in pre-season,” said the 42-year-old.
“It’s clear the idea that he wants to implement and it was a tough game for us, Arteta adds. “There are certain differences and every coach has their touch.
“There are certain individuals with very particular characteristics that makes the team as well. One is the style of play and then it’s the DNA of certain players that always leave their stamp on a team. You can see what he’s doing.”
Who stood out against Arsenal?
We all know not to read too much into pre-season, the results and even the performances. It’s all about building fitness, and in Liverpool’s case this year, familiarity with the new coach.
Nevertheless, it’s also important to note that the Reds are looking very good in the USA. They have transitioned smoothly away from Klopp so far.
Against Arsenal, Slot extended minutes on the pitch for a number of his players, who should now be feeling more ready for the season ahead.
In terms of individuals who stood out, Jarell Quansah had Liverpool fans raving about his display at the heart of the defence, while Harvey Elliott pulled the strings with two excellent assists.
Things may be different when these two teams meet in the Premier League in October, but for now, Slot has just taken a small upper hand on his rival heading into the campaign.
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