Arne Slot has endured a disappointing week as Liverpool manager but is on the verge of winning the Premier League – two years after receiving an offer from Leeds United.
Liverpool were knocked out of the Champions League by French champions Paris Saint-Germain last week before losing the Carabao Cup final to Newcastle United at Wembley on Sunday afternoon.
However, Slot remains an incredible success in what is his only first season at Anfield having replaced Jurgen Klopp. It comes after Slot had starred in his role as Feyenoord manager over the last few years.
Slot had never set foot out of The Netherlands whether that be his playing career or his burgeoning managerial stint. But Liverpool was too good to turn down for the Eredivisie-winning Feyenoord icon.
What Arne Slot said after Leeds United tried to hire him in 2023
Rewind two years ago, and Slot was on the verge of securing the Eredivisie title with Feyenoord when Leeds made a £5m move to bring Slot in as Jesse Marsch’s replacement after a 1-0 loss against Forest.
Slot was said to have been tempted by a move to Leeds. But nothing materialised, with Slot quoted by Sky Sports as saying the decision was made for him even if he might have stayed at Feyenoord anyway.
“It is true that I will stay with Feyenoord, I can say that with this one. That is clear, fans do not have to be afraid. The club has been clear. It was a compliment that a club like Leeds was interested,” Slot said.
“But we are doing something great with Feyenoord. We are in a great position in the league, the cup and Europe. There is no disappointment. It’s certainly not a punishment to stay here,” he continued, in 2023.
Arne Slot was not the only manager Leeds United tried to hire
Andoni Iraola was actually Leeds’ first choice after the sacking of Marsch. But, Iraola said Rayo had chosen to keep him after Leeds talks. Of course, Iraola has gone on to shine with top-tier side Bournemouth.
Instead, Victor Orta appointed former Watford manager Javi Gracia. After a good start, the Spaniard was sacked following 12 games. Gracia has since spoken of being “hurt” after he was sacked on his birthday.
Ultimately, Marsch’s poor tactics and woeful spending of the money earned from selling Raphinha and Kalvin Phillips resulted in relegation. Leeds are still paying for that, as they remain in the Championship.
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