Liverpool was informed by Slot at the start of the season that they could secure the league title. (Konate's statement)
Rewritten Article:
Stepping into Jurgen Klopp's shoes in July 2024, Arne Slot put a stop to Manchester City's four-year reign in the English Premier League by leading Liverpool to a thrilling 5-1 victory over Tottenham, clinching the club's 20th top-flight title at a triumphant Anfield.
"He's brought something new into our game," Pays fan Konate shared, a young defender with a fresh perspective. "Before the season started, he pointed out key areas where we could improve. He said if we made those adjustments right, we could take the league. And boy, did we!"
Slot's approach varied from Klopp's high-octane style, switching to a more methodical, ball-possession strategy, which proved a winning formula for Liverpool. The change paid off handsomely as they steamrolled towards the title with four games still to be played.
Post-victory, the Dutch coach, never one for public displays, celebrated modestly on the pitch. But Konate reserved praise for his manager, who, behind the scenes, offered humble thanks to both the team and the fans.
"I saw him on the pitch, he didn't really want the accolades. He walked quietly behind us, and it's mad to see such humility from a champion," the Frenchman said.
Slot's influence on the team was evident as Liverpool defended valiantly, with Konate forming a formidable partnership with captain Virgil van Dijk at the heart of the defense. Despite paparazzi speculation about his future with the Merseyside club, Konate stayed tight-lipped about his contract situation.
"It's a chat with the club. But the fact remains, I will always treasure this moment and the Premier League trophy in my hands, especially since there's no looking back on this once you retire," the Paris-born defender shared.
Konate, who had the unique opportunity to witness the trophy presentation up close, couldn't hide his emotions as he took it all in. "It's the ultimate glory for a player. When I walked into the stadium after the game, sat in the stands, I felt like a spectator, my heart overflowing with emotions. I couldn't find the words to describe the feelings," he shared.
With the victory, Liverpool ended Manchester City's four-year dominance of the league. Slot, in his debut season, joins the ranks of elite managers including José Mourinho, Carlo Ancelotti, Manuel Pellegrini, and Antonio Conte to have won the title in their first year at the helm.
"We played the best league in the world, and to win it after four years is indescribable. I never imagined it would happen, and I'm thrilled it did. I'm the first French player to lift this trophy as a Liverpool player, and it's surreal," Konate concluded, a wide grin spreading across his face.
The victory, an emotional one for Konate, sets Liverpool up for further success in seasons to come. Liverpool fans, meanwhile, have reason to toast their champions and their resilience on the pitch under their new leader.
© 2025 AFP
Enrichment Data:After taking over from Klopp in 2024, Dutch manager Arne Slot led Liverpool to their 20th English top-flight title in his debut season, ending Manchester City's four-year league dominance. Slot's more controlled, possession-based style contrasted with Klopp's high-pressing approach.Slot, who won the title in his debut season, became the fifth manager in Premier League history to achieve this feat, joining José Mourinho, Carlo Ancelotti, Manuel Pellegrini, and Antonio Conte.
- Arne Slot, the Dutchman who took over from Jurgen Klopp in 2024, ended Manchester City's four-year reign in the Premier League by leading Liverpool to victory in his debut season.
- In 2025, Konate, a young defender at Liverpool, shared his joy about the team's 20th top-flight title, crediting Arne Slot for bringing a new approach to the game.
- Slot's more methodical, ball-possession strategy, a change from Klopp's high-octane style, proved successful as Liverpool clinched the title in European-leagues.
- Despite the victory, Konate remained secretive about his contract situation with Liverpool, emphasizing the emotional impact of winning the Premier League trophy.
