Former coach Sir Alex Ferguson once admitted that luck played an important role in Manchester United's treble in 1999, when they had a timely breakthrough to make history. Currently, Arne Slot is also enjoying good luck with Liverpool.
Of course, Slot's impressive start at Anfield has not been due to luck. The Dutch strategist has proven his talent through tactics and the use of personnel.
However, Slot has benefited from some good fortune. While goalkeeper Alisson was injured, his replacement 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 become more serious since Rodri's case. As for Arsenal, they have also struggled for a long time without playmaker Martin Odegaard. Let's see what happened to Liverpool in the 2020-2021 season when Virgil van Dijk was sidelined. In general, injuries can be the key to deciding the success or failure of an entire campaign.
Slot inherited a very strong team from Jurgen Klopp, who were on the 4th flank before running out of steam in mid-March. It is rare for a manager to take over a top team when they are still a force. Look at Man United or Chelsea to see the difference it makes.
The Dutch strategist did not spend much, instead adjusting the team to form a 4-2-3-1. The key was Slot playing Ryan Gravenberch as a 'number 6'. While Arsenal and Man City both had a difficult period, Slot had a dream start.
Liverpool's tough games came in October, but they were in full swing and almost eliminated all opponents. One of Liverpool's few weaknesses under Slot was the games after the international break. And Slot has taken strong measures to eliminate Alexis MacAllister and Luis Diaz at many times due to the time difference.
The "Red Brigade" overcame Southampton and returned to top form against Real Madrid and Man City. Liverpool took full advantage of their opponents' decline to win important victories.
In terms of form, Liverpool are not only the best team in England or Europe, but also the best team in the world. And Klopp will have a lot of consideration when looking at the current Liverpool. Imagine what he would have won if Real or Man City had declined like this? Maybe two more Champions League titles and two more Premier League titles.
Klopp had to fight Man City when they were at their peak, and finished 2nd with 97 points in 2019. At that time, they were only 1 point behind The Citizens and 27 points behind Chelsea in third place. Their 97 points is still the fourth highest in Premier League history. And in that campaign, the "Red Brigade" also lost only 1 match.
Liverpool are a great team at the moment, but have yet to match themselves in the 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 seasons. 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 are having it.
