Arne Slot given early boost by Liverpool's title rivals ahead of contract signing

Arne Slot has received an early boost ahead of becoming Liverpool boss, with the Reds' Champions League status for next term now secure.

Slot is expected to be confirmed as Liverpool's next head coach imminently after a compensation package was agreed with Feyenoord. The Dutch coach is set to takeover from Jurgen Klopp with the Reds to undergo a summer of a change.

They retain their position in Europe's premier tournament, something that has not been in doubt for a long period, after Arsenal defeated Tottenham 3-2 on Sunday afternoon. That sees Liverpool's 15-point advantage over the Lilywhites as enough to guarantee a place in this term's top four.

Unfortunately, three points for the Gunners, in addition to another win for Man City against Nottingham Forest, ensured Liverpool's title chances took a significant blow. The Reds' draw with West Ham sees them trail Arsenal by five points and Pep Guardiola's side by four, with City holding one game in hand of their rivals.

Klopp does not expect his team to come back into contention. "I don't think about it really," he said.

"So, I said before, we need to win our games. We didn't win the game. That doesn't improve our situation now massively.

"Do they [ Manchester City and Arsenal ] look like they will lose two or three games? No, I don't think so but, honestly, I'm not angry or whatever... I don't think about it. It's just we have to win football games and let's see what that means in the end.

"What do we have now? 75 points? 84 [are] possible and I think it is a good target to try to do that. That is what will be my attitude, my mindset and we will see what that means. It's a while ago somebody became champion with 84 points I think, long ago. I am sorry, but I don't have better news for you."

Slot will arrive with the challenge of driving the team further against the same competition. The 45-year-old coach found success with Feyenoord and delivered an Eredivisie title in 2022/23, but was unable to repeat the feat this term while his team did lift the KNVB Cup.

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