Liverpool celebrated after taking the lead against Wolves.
Image credit: Liverpool FC
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has introduced subtle but effective changes to the team’s match preparations.
One of these changes includes giving players a day off two days before matches—even before crucial fixtures like their upcoming clash with Manchester City.
Slot hosted his pre-match press conference on Thursday instead of Friday to allow the players a full day off.
This might seem unusual, but it’s part of a broader strategy he has implemented since taking charge at Liverpool.
A Culture of Trust and Rest
One of the key reasons for Slot’s successful start at Anfield is the strong culture that was already in place among the players.
Unlike some managers who overhaul team rules upon arrival, Slot has made only a few adjustments, focusing on optimizing player well-being rather than imposing strict regulations.
In January, Slot explained:
If possible, we always prefer to have them off three days before a game. It’s not always possible, but we try.
This was the case before Liverpool’s previous encounter with Manchester City in December, a match the Reds won 2-0 just four days after also defeating Real Madrid.
The approach clearly hasn’t harmed performance, and Slot sees it as a way to ensure players remain physically and mentally fresh.
A Change in Routine: Home Over Hotel
Another notable adjustment under Slot is allowing players to stay at home rather than in a hotel before home matches.
Traditionally, Liverpool players would spend the night in a team hotel, but Slot believes that sleeping in their own beds leads to better rest and recovery.
Speaking on this change, Slot said:
My staff and I feel the best place to sleep is your own bed. It gives you the best rest possible. That’s maybe one of the few things we’ve changed.
Minimal Rule Changes, Maximum Impact
Slot has praised the discipline and professionalism of his squad, noting that he hasn’t needed to introduce many new rules.
Mo Salah’s Premier League goal contributions have earned Liverpool 31 points this season. Without them, they’d be in the bottom half of the table 🤯 pic.twitter.com/wbVBaRekVi
— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) February 21, 2025
When asked on Sky Sports back in October if he had implemented major changes, he admitted:
Maybe we’ve implemented one or two, but if you ask me which ones, I don’t even know. There was already a strong culture here—players being on time, working hard—so I didn’t need to change much.
While some managers rely on strict fines and disciplinary measures, Slot trusts his players to uphold the high standards already in place.
His small but impactful changes—prioritizing rest, recovery, and individual comfort—are proving effective, as Liverpool remains competitive across multiple competitions.
With a high-stakes match against Manchester City approaching, Slot’s methods will once again be tested.
However, given Liverpool’s recent success under his leadership, his trust-first approach appears to be working.