Harvey Elliott describes Arne Slot’s playing philosophy as a classic Dutch style characterized by elegance, unlike Jurgen Klopp’s ‘heavy metal football.’
As Liverpool began their US trip, the 21-year-old started the 1-0 win over Real Betis. They talked before a match versus Arsenal at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
Elliott described Slot’s response to Klopp’s ‘heavy metal football’ as “elegant and Dutch-style.” The style of play is a lot different. It’s more about in possession now.
“The players are excited. We play certain patterns, and there is a good buzz around the team. The lads are excited to apply them in games.
“It’s a fresh start for everyone. I don’t think it is nerves but excitement. To be honest, I think we [will learn it] very quickly. In the last game, there were certain moments where the amazing football was free-flowing.
“It’s pre-season, and it is only the first couple of games, and we need to keep trusting what they are teaching us. We must keep going if things don’t work out [immediately] because it is all new.”
Elliott played as one of two number 10s with Dominik Szoboszlai against Betis, as the Reds had no senior strikers available for their opening match.
Slot explained last time out that he sees the pair competing for that spot in attacking midfielder. When asked whether a new role could help him make his England debut, Elliott continued: “I hope so. It’s just down to me to put in the work and put in the performances.
“You can say it all you want, but it is down to me to work as hard as I can and perform in training and games. It is on myself. There’s no one I could blame apart from me.
“I just wanted to come back early to familiarize myself with the new style of play and meet the coaching staff and gaffer for the first time.
“It gives me a chance to get up and running in pre-season. I feel like I’ve done that. I need to keep going and building.”
