Arne Slot could have reasons to enjoy comparisons with the distinguished figures who came before him. Even with his side languishing in sixth in the Premier League, he still has the highest win percentage of any Liverpool manager. Unlike Bill Shankly, Bob Paisley and Jurgen Klopp, to name but three, he claimed the league title in his first season at Anfield. Unlike Rafa Benitez or Gerard Houllier, he has won it at some point in his tenure.
And yet Slot can feel trapped between the reality of his immediate predecessor and the idea of his possible successor. Some Liverpool fans can be seduced by the thought of Xabi Alonso. All will have fond memories of Klopp. Is it a problem for Slot? Not for him; perhaps not for his employers, though the ultimate measure will be whether the Dutchman is still in charge next season.
