Arne Slot has spoken for the first time since being confirmed as Liverpool’s new head coach. The 45-year-old issued an emotional message to Feyenoord fans as he prepares to leave the Dutch club.
Slot’s appointment was confirmed by Liverpool earlier today, less than 24 hours on from Jürgen Klopp’s final game as manager. He will officially take over at Anfield at the beginning of next month, having agreed to a three-year deal.
The Dutchman will arrive on Merseyside following a long and extensive search conducted by FSG’s CEO of football Michael Edwards. Ten other names were also in the frame for the job before they landed on Slot.
With Slot not set to officially begin his new role until June, there was no first interview amid Liverpool’s announcement. He has though conducted a final interview with Feyenoord, in which he admits the draw of the Premier League was too good to turn down.
“It is certainly not an easy decision to close the door behind you at a club where you have experienced so many wonderful moments and worked successfully with so many wonderful people,” he told Feyenoord’s club website.
“But as a sportsman, an opportunity to become a head coach in the Premier League, at one of the biggest clubs in the world, is difficult to ignore. I am grateful to Feyenoord for their willingness to cooperate in this transition.”
On his time in Rotterdam, Slot added: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my three years at Feyenoord and have felt very much at home from day one, both within the club and with the supporters.
“When I started in Rotterdam in the summer of 2021, I was convinced that it was possible to achieve success at this wonderful club. The fact that we have reached a European final in three years and won several prizes makes me more than proud.
“I am proud of the players and staff who have worked hard day in, day out for those achievements. To all other sections of the club, who have each contributed to the success in their own way. And of course also to the supporters, who experienced Feyenoord’s many wonderful moments so intensely and passionately. As an opponent it is already impressive when you enter De Kuip, but when you are really part of it you feel it so much more.
“Feyenoord is the club where I was able to celebrate the first major successes in my career as a trainer and where I experienced many great matches, so I cherish those memories.
“And as a football fan I will certainly continue to follow the club, not least because I am convinced that there are still many great things to come in Rotterdam. I wish Feyenoord and everyone who cares about this wonderful club all the best for the future.”
