Liverpool manager Arne Slot is anticipating his Boxing Day match against Leicester City with both excitement and intent. The fixture marks not only the holiday celebration but also the reunion of two Dutch coaching figures: Slot and Leicester's Ruud van Nistelrooy.
Slot, who formerly led Feyenoord to victory over van Nistelrooy’s PSV Eindhoven during their 2022-23 title race, expressed high regard for the Leicester boss. "Ruud is a very nice person, first of all. I met him once or twice and he did really well when he was at PSV because they were at the top of the league table for the last one-and-a-half years," Slot stated during his pre-match press conference.
That title chase revealed the competitive spirit between the two managers, with their clash yielding varied outcomes: PSV won 4-3 at home and the teams drew 2-2 at Feyenoord's De Kuip. Despite this, Slot proudly highlighted his own achievement of finishing seven points clear, as Feyenoord claimed the Eredivisie title.
Now, Slot's Liverpool find themselves four points clear at the top of the Premier League, facing the relegation-threatened Foxes, who have had mixed results under van Nistelrooy. Following strong performances at the beginning of his tenure, Leicester has stumbled recently, losing their last two matches and conceding seven goals without finding the back of the net. These struggles have placed increased pressure on the Dutchman as he prepares to take his side to Anfield.
Slot emphasized the unpredictability of Premier League encounters, stating, "These teams lower down the table all know it's special to play at Anfield, and they will never underestimate us." This caution is particularly pertinent as he reflected on Liverpool's recent challenges, including their vulnerable moments during matches, rather than admitting overconfidence.
On whether Gakpo's presence on Liverpool's roster alters the matchup dynamics, Slot exhibited confidence, saying, "Cody Gakpo was in his team, so I’m happy he’s in my team now when we face Ruud, because I think he scored previously against them. He can replicate his performances as we face Leicester."
Gakpo, who transferred from PSV after Slot’s championship season, is also pivotal for Liverpool’s attacking strategy, perhaps giving Liverpool the edge they need against Leicester’s beleaguered defense.
Meanwhile, Leicester has made notable adjustments to their lineup, as goalkeeper Jakub Stolarczyk and forward Patson Daka receive their first starts of the season. Manager van Nistelrooy has no time for complacency, particularly after losing significant players to injuries. Daka's introduction, especially after a long recovery period from injury, may provide additional firepower Leicester desperately needs.
Despite Leicester’s challenges, Slot reaffirmed respect for van Nistelrooy. "He laid the foundations for the PSV team at the time, and it was no surprise to see them successful afterwards," Slot noted. He remarked on the importance of consistency and determination throughout the match, stressing, "We must understand we cannot underestimate any team, not even for one minute, because if we are not on top of our game, we may not perform as well as we think we can." This cautionary approach must resonate even as they seek to extend their winning streak.
Arne Slot's Liverpool are primed to assert their dominance on Boxing Day, not just to secure points against Leicester, but also to assert themselves against the backdrop of their manager's personal history with van Nistelrooy.
Both slot and Leicester’s Van Nistelrooy face high stakes, underpinning the broader narrative of redemption, rivalry, and the unique pressures of the English Premier League festive season where anything can happen. Liverpool holds the advantage on paper, yet the match still presents uncertainty with Leicester eager to turn their fortunes around.
