Marco van Basten praises Arne Slot: 'He's mega intelligent and tactically brilliant'

Dutch football legend Marco van Basten has expressed his admiration for Arne Slot's work as Liverpool manager. The 46-year-old, who led Feyenoord to the Eredivisie title in 2023, has made an immediate impact at Anfield, winning 22 of his first 26 games and establishing a solid lead in the Premier League table. In addition, Liverpool lead their Champions League group and have advanced to the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup.

While this start has surprised some in England, in the Netherlands expectations were high since his appointment. Van Basten, one of the greatest Dutch players in history and also a former manager, has given his verdict on the qualities that make Slot such an impressive manager.

Communication, tactical intelligence and calm: the keys to Slot's success:

Van Basten, who has spoken to Slot about football on several occasions, highlights his tactical brilliance: "I've met him and talked football with Slot several times; tactically he's brilliant. I've rarely been so impressed by a coach," Van Basten said, according to the Mirror.

But beyond his tactical ability, Van Basten emphasises Slot's ability to communicate his ideas and get players to execute them perfectly: "But the way he communicates all his footballing ideas and makes his players play exactly that way, it's really impressive. Everything about him is calm, because he's mega intelligent."

Ability to manage superstars:

The former AC Milan striker also highlights Slot's ability to manage high-calibre players: "Superstars or top players have a strong character and can be difficult, but Slot is so intelligent that he can steer them all in the direction he wants them to go."

Guaranteed success at any club:

Van Basten is convinced that Slot would succeed at any club, even the most demanding ones: "Slot can work at the most difficult clubs because of his intelligence. I have always said that the bigger the club and the better players it has, the easier the job becomes for him. Slot can really do this same job anywhere. Whether it is Liverpool or Bayern Munich, whatever, I am 100% convinced that he would be successful there as well."

Van Basten's legacy:

During his glittering playing career, Van Basten won three Ballon d'Ors and was instrumental in the Netherlands securing their only major international title, the 1988 European Championship. His iconic volley in the final against the Soviet Union sealed the 2-0 victory.

In summary:

Marco van Basten praises Arne Slot for his tactical brilliance, effective communication and calm.

Van Basten highlights Slot's ability to handle high-level players.

The former Dutch striker believes Slot would be successful at any club, including Bayern Munich.

Slot has made an impressive start at Liverpool, leading the Premier League and advancing in the cups.

Implications:

The praise of a legend like Marco van Basten reinforces Arne Slot's image as one of the most promising managers in football today. His early success at Liverpool is not a fluke, but the result of a combination of tactical talent, communication skills and a great intelligence in managing teams and players. Van Basten's words raise even more expectations about Slot's future at Anfield and his potential to achieve great things with Liverpool.