As Liverpool gears up for their first public summer friendly against Real Betis during their USA tour, Curtis Jones has shed light on the team’s evolving style under new manager Arne Slot. The transition from Jurgen Klopp’s era marks a significant shift towards a more possession-based, patient approach—one that Jones feels suits his style of play.
Liverpool’s decision to appoint Slot, who was previously at Feyenoord, reflects a desire to maintain some continuity with Klopp’s pressing game while embracing a new philosophy. Slot is known for his emphasis on keeping possession and intricate play, which has already started to influence the training sessions at Liverpool.
Curtis Jones is particularly excited about the changes. Speaking about his experience under Slot so far, he expressed enthusiasm for the new direction. “He’s amazing,” Curtis Jones said. “It’s probably the happiest I’ve been in terms of a style of play that suits me. It’s a clear plan in training and he’s fully involved, coaching us a lot. He’s big on the finer details.”
The midfielder elaborated on the new style, explaining that it focuses more on keeping the ball and controlling the game. “It’s always been a hard time, coming around the team as a young lad, and I always had a certain way of playing but I had to adapt and change. But that was part of the plan, and it was something I can do. But I feel this is more me, I can get on the ball more. I’m excited.”
Jones also highlighted how this new approach will impact the team’s overall gameplay. “In the past, it was a rush to get the ball back, a bit too direct, up and down, up and down. Now we want to have all the ball and completely kill a team.” This shift signifies a move away from the fast-paced, counter-attacking style that Liverpool was known for under Klopp, towards a more methodical and controlled game.
While the change in style represents a big adjustment for the team, Curtis Jones is confident that Slot and his staff are patient and understanding of the process. “He knows it will take time as it’s a big change, but him and his staff are chilled about it as they know the quality is all there,” Jones remarked.
The new style under Slot also seems to align more closely with Jones’s natural strengths as a player. “I feel like my way of playing has been to get on the ball and play, being comfortable on the ball. But then I came around a team that had world-class players and I was played on the wing or up front. The central midfielders were always more runners and disciplined. Those principles are the same, but the central midfielder will be more the heart of the team.
As Liverpool prepares for their match against Real Betis, fans will be eager to see how these changes play out on the field. With Curtis Jones and the rest of the squad adapting to Slot’s style, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation about what the future holds for Liverpool under their new manager.