Incoming Liverpool boss Arne Slot found Anfield job offer ‘difficult to ignore’

Former Feyenoord coach Arne Slot admitted it was impossible to turn down “one of the biggest clubs in the world” after being confirmed as Jurgen Klopp’s successor at Liverpool.

The PA news agency understands that Slot, who will become the club’s first head coach rather than manager, has signed a three-year contract and will officially take over on June 1, subject to a work permit.

In a departing message to Feyenoord fans on their official website, Slot said: “It is certainly not an easy decision to close the door behind you at a club where you have experienced so many wonderful moments, and worked so successfully with so many wonderful people.

“But as a sportsman, an opportunity to become a head coach in the Premier League, at one of the biggest clubs in the world, is difficult to ignore. I am grateful to Feyenoord for their willingness to cooperate in this transition.”

Liverpool’s exhaustive search identified the 45-year-old as their preferred candidate several weeks ago and his desire to take the job allowed for a swift appointment.

Slot’s move has been an open secret for some time, with Liverpool paying £9.4million compensation to Feyenoord to secure his services and Slot confirmed Anfield was his next destination at his final pre-match press conference at the Eredivisie club on Friday.

Liverpool were keen to move swiftly to replace Klopp with a number of other top European clubs also looking to recruit managers this summer.

We can announce Arne Slot has agreed a deal to become the club’s new head coach, formally taking up the position on June 1, 2024, subject to a work permit