Think last season’s glory days are enough for Liverpool? Think again! Arne Slot has a stern message for his champions, demanding a ‘change’ and a new level of focus. Plus, find out who’s stepping up as the Reds’ new vice-captain. What does this mean for the squad’s future?

New Liverpool manager Arne Slot has wasted no time in setting a rigorous tone for his squad, delivering a stark warning against dwelling on past glories as the team embarks on the demanding 25/26 Premier League season. Slot’s immediate priority is to instil a forward-looking mentality, cautioning his players that previous triumphs, despite their brilliance, must not overshadow the imperative for continuous improvement and a realistic assessment of performance.

The Dutch tactician specifically urged an end to the “romanticism” surrounding last season’s title-winning efforts, a period often remembered for spectacular victories. Slot, recognizing the inherent human tendency to selectively recall the highlights, is keen to ensure his players confront the full spectrum of their past performances, including the less glamorous moments that contributed to their ultimate success.

Slot candidly reminded the squad that not every match was a dominant display, citing examples such as a challenging away fixture against Wolves where the team lacked a shot on target in the second half, and a fortunate 1-0 win away at another opponent. These specific instances serve to underscore his argument that success often involves grinding out results and overcoming adversity, rather than solely relying on free-flowing, high-scoring football.

This critical self-assessment, according to Slot, is vital for the current campaign. His demand for improvement stems from a belief that even champions must evolve and adapt to maintain their edge in the fiercely competitive Premier League. The focus is now firmly on the present and future, with an emphasis on addressing vulnerabilities and enhancing consistency across all aspects of play.

In addition to this philosophical shift, Slot also confirmed a significant change within the team’s leadership structure, officially naming Andy Robertson as Liverpool’s new vice-captain. This appointment marks a pivotal moment for the squad, introducing a fresh dynamic in the support system for club captain Virgil van Dijk as the team navigates the challenges of the new season.

Robertson’s promotion comes after Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure to another club at the beginning of June. Alexander-Arnold, who had been elevated alongside Van Dijk in 2023 following the exits of long-serving figures James Milner and Jordan Henderson, left a void that required a seasoned and respected figure to fill, prompting widespread speculation among fans and media.

The decision to hand the armband to Robertson is a logical one, given his extensive experience and unwavering commitment to Liverpool. The Scotland captain, now entering his ninth campaign at Anfield, has been an integral part of the team’s successes, winning the Premier League twice, and his leadership qualities are well-established within the dressing room and on the pitch.

Slot highlighted Robertson’s long tenure and his previous position in the leadership pecking order, affirming that the change was a natural progression after Alexander-Arnold’s exit. This move is expected to bolster team cohesion and provide a steady hand in critical moments, reinforcing the club’s commitment to strong, experienced leadership as they aim to build upon their championship foundation.