Slot at AZ Alkmaar
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Slot’s team is quite possession-heavy and his style is very dominant, which has led to AZ averaging more than 60% possession in the Eredivisie and the Europa League this term. Additionally, AZ average an xG of 2.02 and an xGA of 0.87, further indicating how they have dominated teams this season. The 41-year-old coach has been quick to stamp his authority on the playing style of AZ and he has been very successful in implementing the game model quickly.
Ever since Pep Guardiola introduced the roles for Philipp Lahm and David Alaba at Bayern Munich, the concept of inverted full-backs has been something only the most innovative coaches have implemented on a consistent basis. Basically, the role means that the full-back will move into midfield, often alongside the midfield pivot, to create an additional central passing option. This provides a better setup against counter-attacks, and looks to open straightforward passing lanes from centre-back to winger.
For Slot, it seems to be the last point that is most important in his use of inverted full-backs. Slot often has his right-back Jonas Svensson, in particular, move into midfield while the right-winger, often Yukinara Sugawara maintains width. https://totalfootballanalysis.com/article/arne-slot-201920-scout-report-tactical-analysis-tactics-2----
I have to say, we won't be a disaster under him. What he has achieved at AZ and Feyenoord is impressive. Top 4 certainly won't be an issue. His principles are sound.
The big question is can Slot match Guardiola and Arteta? The ceiling is high with those two so here is hoping he surprises us. Recruitment is huge this summer. If there is a big (or small) gap in coaching talent between Arteta/Guardiola and Slot, we need to trump them for player talent. We have a very good base but need to add an elite attacker and centre back. Type of signings that can revolutionise us. Asking for a lot but not too far off the impact of Salah/Mane and Van Dijk.
We have kept our powder dry for a few summers now. This is the time to go big by backing our new manager from the off.
Alonso was the dream choice and a slam dunk but it's time to move on. Our paths will cross when the time is right i guess. Whether than is in 2 years time, or way down the line in 2030 and beyond.