Former manager Sir Alex Ferguson once admitted that luck played a big part in Manchester United's treble-winning campaign in 1999, when they had the breakthrough at the right time to make history. Now, Arne Slot is enjoying the same luck with Liverpool.
Of course, Slot's impressive start at Anfield was not just down to luck. The Dutch tactician has proven his talent through tactics and the use of personnel.
However, Slot has benefited from some good luck. While goalkeeper Alisson was injured, his substitute Caoimhin Kelleher played extremely well. With Diogo Jota absent, other players in Liverpool's attack have also taken turns to shine.
Meanwhile, Man City’s injury problems have only gotten worse since Rodri’s departure. Arsenal have also struggled for a long time without playmaker Martin Odegaard. Just look at what happened to Liverpool in 2020-21 when Virgil van Dijk was sidelined. Injuries can be the key to a campaign’s success.
Slot inherited a very strong team from Jurgen Klopp, who were on course for a quadruple before falling short in mid-March. It is rare for a manager to take over a top team when they are still a force to be reckoned with. Just look at Manchester United or Chelsea to see the difference it makes.
The Dutch tactician did not spend much, instead adjusting the formation to 4-2-3-1. The key was Slot playing Ryan Gravenberch in the "number 6" position. While Arsenal and Man City both had a difficult period, Slot had a dream start.
The tough games against Liverpool came in October, but by then they were in full flow and had virtually wiped out their opponents. One of the few weaknesses Liverpool have had under Slot has been the games after the international break, and Slot has been ruthless in dropping Alexis MacAllister and Luis Diaz at times due to jet lag.
The Reds overcame Southampton and returned to top form against Real Madrid and Man City. Liverpool took full advantage of their opponents' slump to secure important victories.
In terms of form, Liverpool are not just the best team in England or Europe, they are the best team in the world. And Klopp must have a lot to think about when looking at Liverpool now. Imagine what he would have won if Real or Man City were in such a slump? Maybe 2 more Champions League titles and 2 more Premier League titles.
Klopp had to battle Man City at their peak, and finished second with 97 points in 2019. They were just one point behind The Citizens and 27 points ahead of Chelsea in third. Their 97 points is still the fourth highest in Premier League history. And in that campaign, the "Reds" also lost just one game.
Liverpool are a great team at the moment, but they are nowhere near the level they were in 2018-19 and 2019-20. The main difference is that Slot is benefiting from the collapse of Man City and the instability of Arsenal. Luck is always an important factor, even in football. And Slot's Liverpool have it.
