Former Liverpool manager Arne Slot will not be taking over at Manchester United. However, the Dutch tactician could be poised to replace Roberto De Zerbi at Tottenham.
Both clubs have had a rocky start to the season in the Premier League, with Manchester United currently languishing in 12th place under Michael Carrick, while Tottenham, managed by Roberto De Zerbi, sit at the foot of the table with just two points. The two sides are set to clash this Saturday at Old Trafford.
According to sources at TEAMtalk, both clubs' hierarchies are not yet planning to dismiss their managers, but ongoing poor results could lead to tough staffing decisions.
ESPN’s Tor-Christian Karlsen has provided an in-depth analysis of the potential appointment of Arne Slot.
Despite a disappointing second season at Liverpool following a Premier League title-winning first year, a move to Manchester United seems unlikely due to the rivalry between the clubs.
Nonetheless, sources have revealed to ESPN that Slot was previously a strong candidate for the Tottenham job before the club opted for Ange Postecoglou in 2023. With a different hierarchy now in place, there is a possibility he could be tempted.
The best version of Slot's teams is characterised by possession, aggressive pressing, and rapid attacking play.
While there are certain similarities in how De Zerbi utilises his centre-backs and defensive midfielders for build-up play and evading pressing, Slot would need to implement changes regarding space and distances within the squad.
This could work at Tottenham, especially with the new signings of Sandro Tonali and Mateusz Fernandez, who could share these responsibilities deeper in midfield. The role of the 'number ten' higher up the pitch, which Dominic Szoboszlai excelled in during Slot's first season at Anfield, is crucial and would have to be shared between James Maddison, Xavi Simons, and Dejan Kulusevski.
The key here is finding balance between creativity, movement in the box, and off-the-ball work.
Tottenham presents the best opportunity for him. Although results currently don't reflect it, the Spurs have enough depth, quality, energy, and pace in their squad for Slot to build his playing model.
