Dutch legend Robin van Persie, currently managing Arne Slot’s former club Feyenoord (which, like Liverpool, has suffered a three-game losing streak), voiced his support for Slot during the pre-match press conference ahead of their Europa League home game against Celtic.
On Slot’s situation:
“A few days ago, I received a very warm message from Arne Slot, and I replied with one that I hope was just as warm. We admire each other’s work, and we’re both going through a tough phase right now.”
“Liverpool have played extremely well in many phases of their games, but they’ve been losing frequently lately. We’re facing the same problem. But we’re both sticking to our principles. As long as that’s visible, all signs are positive. I’m sure that’s the case with Arne too. He’s an excellent coach.”
“Arne must keep working hard, stay consistent with his approach, while also remaining critical and continuing to point out issues. If that’s part of your working method, then even when the team isn’t performing well, players won’t be caught off guard by you highlighting problems.”
On the pressure of managing Feyenoord:
“At Feyenoord, there’s pressure in every game. We’re used to it. It doesn’t really bother me. There are always outside voices – that’s what makes this job interesting. It’s because of these voices that we’re a top club. I don’t see it as extra pressure.”
“Statistically, we can compete with Europe’s top teams, but our performances are inconsistent. We reach peaks sometimes and drop sharply at others. Meanwhile, the top English teams are much more stable. That’s related to possession ability.”
Van Persie also mentioned that Thursday’s Feyenoord vs. Celtic match holds special significance, honoring Feyenoord legend Wim Jansen. The former Dutch international, who passed away in 2022, led Celtic to the title as manager in the 1997/1998 season.
Van Persie has fond memories of Jansen: “When I was in Feyenoord’s academy, I always played for Wim. He would stand on the sidelines, and I wanted to impress him. He said he wanted to see within five minutes that I was the best player on the pitch, so I always worked extra hard.”
