Liverpool only have one loss to their name after eight Premier League matches under new gaffer Arne Slot. Currently, Manchester City sit top of the table with one extra game played but the Reds will be back on top if they successfully register a win at the Emirates today.
Only a two-point difference separates the Merseysiders and the Sky Blues making it difficult for Pep Guardiola to catch up if the Reds continue their newfound form. Mikel Arteta has built some momentum at the Emirates in their last clash but without his preferred lineup, it will be interesting to see how things turn out.
With Arne Slot making big strides at Anfield in only his first season, Liverpool legend Rafael Benítez has broken silence regarding his former club.
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Benítez agrees with Slot’s cautious optimism
Arne Slot got a better team to start with (Credits: Imago Images)
“When Arne Slot says people should judge his Liverpool side in a few weeks’ time rather than now, it makes total sense to me. At this stage, he is still finding out about his players himself – and they are also finding out about him too”, the Spaniard told BBC.
“But there are other things for everyone to learn about each other, that become important at the end of the season if you want to win things.”
Rafa agrees with Slot’s cautious mentality that there is still time to gel together in a new environment. He also mentioned that the Dutchman had been given an easier start in comparison because of the current Liverpool squad.
“The difference with the Liverpool team I inherited was that they were not in the best position in the table. They had just finished the previous season 30 points behind the champions, Arsenal.”
“Slot has done a fantastic job so far, but he had a very good team to build on when he arrived.”
On Liverpool vs Arsenal
Arsenal have built some momentum at the Emirates from their last clash (Credits: Imago Images)
“They are definitely on the right path, and in a good place to go to the Emirates on Sunday. Beating Arsenal will be a good challenge and a difficult test, but I think they have the belief that they can do it, and that is the main thing.”
Rafael Benítez mentioned that belief is an important part of football. Having a good team to build on has made Slot’s work easier and the only thing that remains is to grow as a team.
“Overall, I think they have more balance and if they can continue to carry a threat in attack then we have already seen that they don’t concede too many goals. Put that together, and it is the key to being successful.”
