Heavy Metal vs. Symphonic Football: A Statistical Comparison Of Klopp vs. Slot

There has been an undeniable shift in the style of play for Liverpool under Arne Slot. It goes much deeper than the tactical change from Jürgen Klopp’s 4-3-3 to Slot’s 4-2-3-1. Klopp liked what he described as “Heavy Metal” football, where he would attack quickly in a high-risk, high-reward style of play. 

While Slot also likes to have numbers forward, he is more methodical in the build-up, whereas Klopp would press to win possession high up the pitch.

The eye-test tells you that because of Slot’s more methodical build-up, the Reds have more possession under Slot, and the media pushes the narrative. But if you look at the data, Klopp’s 2023/24 team actually possessed the ball nearly five per cent more than did Slot in his first season (61.3% to 57.4%).

A Musical Metaphor

If Klopp’s brand of football is heavy metal, Slot’s is more of a symphony orchestra. It’s beautiful, but it takes a while to build up, leaving the audience waiting for the payoff. You can see that reflected in the stats. Because Slot prefers to play out of the back, the Reds have more possession in their own third. The passing accuracy has also increased, while the number of shots the Reds face per game has dropped.

Chaos vs. Control 

We have established the difference between the two managers, but why did Klopp’s chaotic style of football produce more possession than Slott’s more measured approach? The difference comes down to areas on the pitch. As mentioned, Slot has more possession in the back half or the middle of the pitch. Klopp’s high press aimed for turnovers high up the pitch. You can see this reflected in the stats. Klopp’s Reds averaged 215 touches in the final third vs. Slot’s 185 this season. That difference is enough to see Klopp pass Slot in overall possession numbers.

Nationality  vs. Personality 

The media claim that Liverpool’s shift in style is Dutch Football. I don’t agree. I’ve seen plenty of Dutch National team matches with the “Rock Star Mentality” from players like Robin van Persie and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar a generation ago. 

I think it has more to do with personality than anything else. Jürgen Klopp looked like he drank a few Red Bulls before each match, running up and down the touchline, pumping his fists. Slot is more reserved and stoic. The bosses’ styles of football reflect that individual’s personality.

What do you think? Are you surprised that the Reds had more possession under Klopp?  Do you prefer “Heavy Metal” or “Symphonic” Football? Sound off and let us know your thoughts below.