Even though he hasn’t officially taken charge of Liverpool yet, Arne Slot faces a series of challenges at Anfield following Jurgen Klopp’s departure.

Arne Slot has essentially completed the formalities to lead Liverpool from next season onwards.

After over 8 years under Jurgen Klopp’s leadership, which included triumphs in the Premier League and the Champions League, Liverpool is entering a new chapter with Arne Slot. Joining from Feyenoord, the Dutch manager will have plenty to address in his new role.

Slot’s priority must be resolving the future of key players in the Liverpool squad. Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold have played crucial roles in the success of the “Reds” under Klopp. However, all three will see their contracts expire next summer.

It would be difficult for Liverpool fans to accept seeing any of these three stars leave. But ultimately, Slot will have to make the final decision.

There’s significant doubt surrounding Mohamed Salah’s future at Liverpool.

Salah, aged 31, once again finds himself attracting interest from the Saudi Pro League. His recent dip in form has left Liverpool contemplating.

Meanwhile, Van Dijk will turn 33 this summer. Is The Kop ready for a defense without the Dutch center-back? If not, Slot will need to persuade Van Dijk and Salah about the reliability of his new plan.

Regardless of whether Liverpool win the Premier League this season or not, Klopp has left Slot with a solid foundation. With a rejuvenated squad, a top 3 position in the Premier League, and the Carabao Cup title within reach, Liverpool’s expectations remain acceptable. This shows that Anfield still harbors promising young talents and serves as a launchpad for the future.

However, Slot cannot ignore the reality of facing Manchester City and Arsenal, two growing powerhouses. Certainly, the Premier League is far more demanding than the Dutch national championship.

To ensure Liverpool don’t fall behind next season, Slot must first address the finishing aspect. The inadequacy of the strikers has caused the “Reds” to miss their four-goal target this season.

Darwin Nunez’s name often arises amid Liverpool’s recent slump. The Uruguayan player has missed 26 out of 32 major opportunities in the Premier League this season. So how can Slot make Liverpool’s £85 million investment worthwhile?

But with Luis Diaz and Salah also among the top 10 for missed chances, Liverpool’s finishing problem is incredibly perplexing. They have the highest expected goals (xG) total in the Premier League this season. However, with 79.5 xG, The Kop has only scored 77 goals.

In contrast, Arsenal and Manchester City have scored more than 15 and 12 goals respectively compared to their xG. Therefore, it’s not surprising that Liverpool have fallen behind in the title race.

Slot needs to maintain the passionate atmosphere in the stands of Anfield, just as Klopp did.

Not only does Slot have to address on-field issues, but he also needs to convince Liverpool fans just as Klopp did. Slot can’t replicate Klopp, and no one can expect him to. However, first and foremost, this strategist must persuade supporters with the plan he lays out.

Liverpool can’t thrive without the symbiotic relationship with their fans. The passionate atmosphere at Anfield has always been a crucial weapon for the “Reds”. Slot’s task is to continue maintaining that tradition.