Arne Slot has written his name into Liverpool folklore by leading the club to their 20th league championship, matching Manchester United’s record, in what has been a stunning debut season. The 46-year-old Dutchman, tasked with the monumental challenge of succeeding Jürgen Klopp, not only embraced the pressure but exceeded expectations, securing the title with four games to spare. Liverpool’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Tottenham at a jubilant Anfield confirmed their status as the 2024-25 Premier League champions.
Slot’s achievement is unprecedented in Liverpool’s rich history. While past greats like Matt McQueen, Joe Fagan, and Kenny Dalglish won the title early in their managerial stints, Slot stands alone as the first to clinch it in his very first season at the club. His success was built on a seamless transition from Klopp’s era, a remarkable unbeaten run, and a reinvigorated squad that displayed grit, flair, and consistency from the opening weekend.
A Day to Remember: The 5-1 Rout Over Tottenham
Anfield was alive with anticipation at kick-off, though a slight nervousness crept in when Dominic Solanke headed Tottenham into a surprise lead in the 12th minute. Liverpool, however, responded with the determination of champions. Luis Díaz levelled swiftly after a VAR review, and just minutes later, Alexis Mac Allister rifled Liverpool into the lead with a stunning finish. Cody Gakpo’s header from a corner before half-time effectively ended the contest, setting the stage for a title party.
The second half was pure celebration under the Merseyside sun. Mohamed Salah, Liverpool’s talisman all season, added the fourth goal with his 28th of the campaign. Destiny Udogie’s unfortunate own goal sealed the rout, as the Kop erupted in sheer ecstasy. This resounding win not only secured the title but also underlined Liverpool’s dominance throughout the season.
Ending City’s Reign: Liverpool’s Commanding Campaign
Liverpool’s triumph ended Manchester City’s four-year dominance of English football, and it had long seemed inevitable. Slot’s men built an insurmountable lead after the New Year, while rivals faltered. Arsenal’s midweek draw against Crystal Palace had left Liverpool needing just one point from their final five matches — a requirement they swiftly surpassed in style against Spurs.
The foundation for Liverpool’s championship success was laid during a crucial period starting from 2 November. That day, Arsenal lost at Newcastle, Manchester City suffered a shock defeat at Bournemouth, and Liverpool staged a comeback victory against Brighton, with Salah netting a late winner. From that moment, Slot’s team showed relentless consistency, embarking on a remarkable 26-match unbeaten league run that crushed any hopes of a title race.
Klopp’s Legacy, Slot’s Triumph
Though this was Slot’s moment, the fingerprints of Jürgen Klopp’s legacy were everywhere. The German manager, who shocked the football world by announcing his departure last season, left behind a squad rich in talent, experience, and spirit. Slot, trusting the existing core rather than overhauling the team, made only one signing, Federico Chiesa, who played a limited role. Instead, he leaned heavily on the club’s pillars: Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Contract renewals for Salah and Van Dijk brought stability amid the backdrop of uncertainty surrounding key players. However, Alexander-Arnold’s future remains unresolved, with a possible move to Real Madrid looming. Nevertheless, Slot’s ability to harness the squad’s strengths, inject tactical flexibility, and instil unwavering belief has delivered Liverpool’s second Premier League crown in five years — this time, in front of ecstatic supporters, unlike the pandemic-hit triumph of 2020.
What’s Next for Liverpool? A Parade, Reinforcements, and a New Era
Liverpool’s title will be celebrated with a city-wide trophy parade scheduled for Monday, 26 May — an occasion denied to fans five years ago due to COVID-19 restrictions. Reports suggest that Klopp, still beloved at Anfield, may join the festivities to honour the players he nurtured and the manager who carried forward his legacy with distinction.
Looking ahead, Liverpool have already secured a €35m deal for Valencia’s highly-rated goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili. Further reinforcements are expected, with the club eyeing a young left-back and a new centre-forward to bolster their ranks. Under Slot’s guidance, Liverpoo seem poised for sustained success, blending Klopp’s foundation with a fresh, dynamic approach. If Slot’s debut season is anything to go by, a new golden era could be dawning at Anfield.
