Liverpool’s new manager, Arne Slot, made a winning start to his Premier League tenure with a comfortable 2-0 victory over newly promoted Ipswich Town at Portman Road. Although the first half proved to be a tough battle for the Reds, they unleashed a powerful performance in the second half, securing the win with goals from Diogo Jota and Mohamed Salah.
Slot, replacing the legendary Jürgen Klopp, became only the second Liverpool manager in the Premier League era to secure a victory on his league debut, after Gerard Houllier’s joint-management role with Roy Evans in 1998.
Following the match, Slot expressed his delight with his team’s second-half performance. “The first taste (of Premier League football) in the first half was maybe as expected because they were all on top of us, very aggressive. Second half was a joy to watch,” he said to TNT Sports. “I think we needed to win the long balls through the air. That helped and gave us control. I don’t think Ipswich could keep up with the tempo in the second half. “In the second half the players were ready and then gas opened up and you could see we can play quite good football.”
Salah’s goal, a well-executed finish, marked his ninth goal in Premier League season openers, a record among all players. The Egyptian star’s contribution at Portman Road, including an assist, suggests he will again be a crucial player for Liverpool’s title aspirations. However, Slot believes in the strength of his team rather than relying heavily on individual talent.
“I don’t believe that much in one man, I believe in the team more than the individual,” Slot added. “He can score his goals because of good runs, good assists. “I think Mo also needs the team but we also have more creative individuals who can decide the game,” he stated.
With this victory, Slot sets a positive tone for his reign at Anfield, highlighting his team’s potential and showcasing a compelling brand of football that promises an exciting season for Liverpool fans.
