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It will take more than one night for Arne Slot to join the pantheon of Liverpool’s legendary managers, but Sunday night at Anfield gave the feeling that Slot's influence is truly beginning to take hold.
Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over Chelsea was not just another win – it was a statement of intent from a team growing under Slot’s more measured approach. The evening was tense, pulsating, and packed with drama until the final whistle, with the crowd’s energy seemingly willing their team to victory.
Slot’s Liverpool may not be the "heavy metal football" of Jurgen Klopp, but it’s effective. Echoes of the autumn of 1974, when Bob Paisley adapted Bill Shankly’s creed, rang through the air. Slot's emphasis on patient build-up and passing has been evident, but this match also saw Liverpool embrace the pressing and pace that fans at Anfield adore.
Central to this was Curtis Jones, who epitomised Slot’s new ethos. Tasked with managing Chelsea’s biggest threat, Cole Palmer, while driving Liverpool forward, Jones was outstanding. His effort earned Liverpool a crucial penalty, coolly converted by Mohamed Salah. But just as importantly, he made critical defensive plays, showing the maturity of a player who has thrived under Slot's tutelage.
Jones’ second-half goal, which ultimately secured the points for Liverpool, capped off a sensational performance. His control and finish from Salah’s cross were cool and composed, much like the new father’s celebration after the birth of his first child, Giselle Delilah Jones.
Chelsea did offer plenty of resistance, with Jadon Sancho and Noni Madueke threatening Liverpool’s full-backs, but their finishing lacked bite. A late VAR-awarded goal from Nicolas Jackson gave the Blues hope, but Liverpool held firm.
Slot’s Liverpool sits atop the Premier League, with seven wins in eight games. Bigger challenges lie ahead, but this victory, powered by Curtis Jones’ brilliance, felt like a turning point for the Reds.