Slot Emphasizes Importance of Winning Ahead of EFL Cup Final

Arne Slot, Liverpool's manager, stresses that reaching finals is special, but ultimate success lies in winning titles.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot is reveling in a remarkable debut season in English football but is not losing sight of the ultimate goal as his team prepares for the EFL Cup final against Newcastle at Wembley on March 16. After a dominant 4-0 victory over Tottenham in the semi-final, Slot expressed satisfaction yet tempered excitement with a reminder: "It's only special if you can win things."

Slot's journey to this final has been a testament to his coaching acumen, having previously guided Feyenoord to Dutch Cup success. This transition to English football has posed its challenges, yet his side currently sits six points clear at the top of the Premier League and has advanced to the last 16 of the Champions League. Slot's philosophy revolves around continuous improvement, emphasizing teamwork and development: "In the end, it's about reaching finals and winning things."

As he prepares for his first visit to the iconic Wembley Stadium, Slot reflects on legendary moments in football history, noting how special it is for Dutch footballers, referencing the likes of Ronald Koeman and Johan Cruyff who made their mark at this venue. While acknowledging Newcastle’s strength, he carries a sense of hope that success in the EFL Cup could serve as a launchpad for more silverware this season.

Historically, the EFL Cup has often paved the way for greater achievements. Many successful managers, such as Ferguson and Mourinho, experienced a surge in momentum after winning this competition. As Jamie Carragher points out, “This could be a really, really special season for Liverpool.” With fans hoping for a potential quadruple, Slot's task is to convert this promise into tangible success, knowing well that glory is measured by victories at the end of the day.

In Slot's own words, “If there is any secret, it’s to take it seriously.” As the team prepares to take the field at Wembley, the pressure is on to make that special moment count—by lifting the trophy high above their heads.

What to Read Next

The Tragic Passing of Premier League Footballer Kevin Campbell
Football

The Tragic Passing of Premier League Footballer Kevin Campbell

Retired Premier League footballer Kevin Campbell died of natural causes. A coroner's investigation reveals details.

Erling Haaland's Ankle Injury: Will He Return for Manchester City's Remaining Campaigns?
Football

Erling Haaland's Ankle Injury: Will He Return for Manchester City's Remaining Campaigns?

Erling Haaland's ankle injury after the FA Cup win. Will he play again this season?

Mastering Double Gameweeks in Fantasy Premier League
Football

Mastering Double Gameweeks in Fantasy Premier League

Tips and strategies for handling double gameweeks in FPL.

Mohamed Salah's New Two-Year Contract with Liverpool: A Milestone
Football

Mohamed Salah's New Two-Year Contract with Liverpool: A Milestone

Egypt forward Mohamed Salah signs a new two-year deal with Liverpool.

Reading's Club Sale Deal Progresses with Extended Deadline
Football

Reading's Club Sale Deal Progresses with Extended Deadline

Reading has agreed terms with a buyer for the club sale, with the EFL extending the deadline.

Cole Palmer's Goal-Scoring Struggles: A Mental Battle for Chelsea Striker
Football

Cole Palmer's Goal-Scoring Struggles: A Mental Battle for Chelsea Striker

Chelsea forward Cole Palmer's goal drought is a mental issue, says boss Enzo Maresca.

Brighton Secures £10m Deal for Promising Sunderland Teenager Watson
Football

Brighton Secures £10m Deal for Promising Sunderland Teenager Watson

Brighton signs Sunderland's 18-year-old winger Tom Watson for £10m.

David Gray Extends Hibernian Contract for Three Years
Football

David Gray Extends Hibernian Contract for Three Years

David Gray signs a new three-year deal as Hibernian's head coach.

Exciting FA Cup Semi-Finals: Live Updates and Insights
Football

Exciting FA Cup Semi-Finals: Live Updates and Insights

Get all the details about the FA Cup semi-finals and how to follow on the BBC.

The Rising Star of Nico O'Reilly in Manchester City's FA Cup Campaign
Football

The Rising Star of Nico O'Reilly in Manchester City's FA Cup Campaign

Nico O'Reilly is shining in Man City's FA Cup. Learn about his career and impact.

Legia's Fan Unruly Behavior and Upcoming Penalties in Football
Football

Legia's Fan Unruly Behavior and Upcoming Penalties in Football

Legia Warsaw fans' wild behavior at Stamford Bridge brings more fines.

Manchester United's Post-Season Asian Tour Planned
Football

Manchester United's Post-Season Asian Tour Planned

Manchester United to play in Asia immediately after the season ends, generating excitement.

Man City Fans' Intense Battle for Fair Ticket Policies
Football

Man City Fans' Intense Battle for Fair Ticket Policies

Man City fans are protesting the club's ticket policies. Find out more.

Brighton's Quest to Escape the 'Happy-Clappy' Culture for Success
Football

Brighton's Quest to Escape the 'Happy-Clappy' Culture for Success

Brighton boss backs Welbeck's criticism, aims to change team culture.

The Williams Brothers' Quest for European Glory with Athletic Bilbao
Football

The Williams Brothers' Quest for European Glory with Athletic Bilbao

The Williams brothers aim to lead Athletic Bilbao to European success against Rangers.

Load More