‘Let me understand…’ – Slot couldn’t believe what Michael Owen said about Liverpool this week

Arne Slot, the head coach of Liverpool, was left stunned by Michael Owen’s comments during an interview with Virgil van Dijk after the Merseyside derby. When Owen suggested to the Dutch defender that the Reds’ season would be less “special” if they were to win the Premier League but nothing else, Van Dijk quickly fired back. He responded by asserting that lifting the domestic title would be a significant achievement in its own right and expressed his determination to “change the narrative” around Liverpool’s ambitions for the season.

The exchange sparked a brief back-and-forth, with Slot also expressing his disbelief at Owen’s implication that winning the Premier League alone wouldn’t be a monumental success for Liverpool. A few days later, Slot joined Van Dijk in pushing back against Owen’s comments, dismissing the notion that lifting the Premier League without additional silverware would somehow diminish the achievement. Moreover, Slot rejected the broader suggestion that the quality of the Premier League had dropped compared to previous seasons.

In a reflection shared with the Daily Mail, Slot elaborated on the interview, saying, “Let me understand it right, Virgil was a bit frustrated because it came across as it’s not enough to ‘only’ win the Premier League? Michael played for us, didn’t he? So he is aware of the fact that in 35 years we won the league only once?”

Slot continued, “There’s your answer. If you can win the league with this club, then nothing else matters. If you win it 10 times in a row, then I could understand people saying, ‘Oh, but you only won the Premier League’. But at this club, you can compete for it, and to even win it, that’s a strange question to ask in my opinion.”

He also remarked on the overall quality of the Premier League, emphasizing that it’s stronger than ever. “I think the league is better than it ever was,” he said. “The strength overall is getting better. Even Pep Guardiola has said there will never be another team that gets more than 100 points and wins the league four times in a row as long as he lives.”

Arne Slot Defends Liverpool’s Ambitions

Slot’s response to Owen’s interview has reignited the conversation about Liverpool’s ambitions this season, with many believing that winning the Premier League would be a fitting culmination of the team’s efforts. Despite the lack of a significant cup run, a title victory would be a significant marker for a club that has gone through a period of transition under Jurgen Klopp’s watch.

For Slot, the notion that Liverpool’s domestic success could be undervalued is simply unfathomable. Winning the Premier League this year would mark a historic achievement, especially considering the way Liverpool’s season began. Pre-season predictions had largely left them out of the conversation as genuine title contenders, with many experts instead favoring the likes of Manchester City and Arsenal. Slot’s insistence that this year’s potential title would mean as much as any other triumph in the club’s history resonates with fans who’ve witnessed the ups and downs of recent years.

Liverpool’s title bid this year would undoubtedly be special for numerous reasons. For one, it would not only end a long wait for the club’s supporters but also offer a much-needed sense of closure, especially for those who feel that the 2020 Premier League title was tainted by the global pandemic, which deprived fans of a proper celebration. Slot’s emphasis on this notion adds another layer to his argument, underscoring the significance of this potential triumph.

A Momentous Title for Liverpool Fans

It’s easy to forget, amid the success of recent seasons, how difficult it has been for Liverpool to lift major trophies. Before their 2019 Champions League triumph, the club had been without silverware for over a decade, securing only one League Cup in that time. Therefore, to claim the Premier League this season would be a monumental achievement, one that would cement the legacy of the current crop of players and their manager, Jürgen Klopp.

Slot, ever aware of the scrutiny that Liverpool faces as one of the biggest clubs in the world, has been quick to remind everyone that winning the Premier League should not be considered a simple or straightforward feat. The competition within the league is fierce, and with teams like Manchester City, Arsenal, and Newcastle improving year after year, claiming the title would be an extraordinary accomplishment. The Premier League has long been touted as one of the toughest leagues in the world, and Slot’s perspective reflects a broader understanding of the challenges at play.

The Quality of the Premier League

Another key point raised by Slot is the current strength of the Premier League, which he believes is stronger than it has ever been. While some have suggested that the league’s quality has declined in recent seasons, Slot firmly disagrees. Teams that were once considered mid-table have shown consistent improvement, with the likes of Aston Villa, Brighton, and Newcastle all pushing the traditional top six for European spots.

The idea that the league has lost its edge is often an opinion driven by jealousy, according to Slot. Liverpool’s rise back to the top, especially following their Champions League and Premier League triumphs, has rubbed some of the traditional powerhouses the wrong way. Slot’s comments underscore the fact that success in the Premier League requires more than just a few star players – it demands consistency, teamwork, and a deep squad.

Slot’s Faith in Liverpool’s Chances

As Liverpool edges closer to the business end of the season, Slot’s confidence in the squad’s ability to win the Premier League only grows. He has worked closely with key players like Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Alisson Becker, all of whom have been instrumental in their success. With these world-class individuals at the heart of Liverpool’s team, it is no wonder that Slot believes a Premier League title is within reach.

The head coach also recognizes the importance of mentality and culture at Liverpool, stressing that winning the league title would be the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and a collective desire to prove themselves. Whether or not the Reds are crowned champions, Slot is sure of one thing: there will be no doubting the significance of any silverware they lift this season.

The Narrative Around Liverpool

One of the most crucial aspects of the discussion, according to Slot, is the narrative that surrounds Liverpool’s season. The club has often been the subject of intense media scrutiny, with pundits quick to downplay their achievements and question their longevity at the top. Slot’s mission is to change this narrative and ensure that Liverpool’s success is celebrated, no matter what form it takes.

Despite the criticisms that come with being a top club, Slot is determined to make sure that Liverpool’s accomplishments are acknowledged. Whether it’s winning the Premier League or simply continuing to build upon their strong performances, Slot’s vision is clear: success at Liverpool is measured by much more than just the opinions of outsiders.

Embracing the Challenge

Slot’s stance on Michael Owen’s interview reflects his broader approach to Liverpool’s season: embracing the challenge ahead and continuing to prove themselves on the pitch. Whether or not the Premier League title comes their way, Liverpool will continue to fight for every point, every goal, and every trophy that’s on offer.

Ultimately, Slot’s message to Owen and to anyone who underestimates Liverpool’s ambitions is simple: winning the Premier League this season would be a major achievement, and no one should diminish its significance. The quality of the league, the strength of the competition, and the relentless spirit of the team all contribute to the value of a potential title.

The Road Ahead

As the season unfolds and Liverpool continues to battle for top honors, Slot’s leadership will be critical in maintaining focus and keeping the team motivated. With each passing week, Liverpool’s pursuit of the Premier League becomes even more intense, and the stakes grow higher. The team is ready, and the fans are behind them every step of the way. Whether they come out on top or fall just short, Liverpool’s efforts this season will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the Premier League.

Final Thoughts

Arne Slot’s comments about Michael Owen’s interview serve as a reminder that success at Liverpool is not just about the number of trophies won but about the culture, mentality, and dedication that underpins everything the club does. As the Reds continue their pursuit of the Premier League title, Slot’s determination to change the narrative and highlight the significance of their achievements is clear. No matter what happens this season, Liverpool is ready to embrace whatever challenges lie ahead.