“From Bergentheim to Anfield, we got your back Arne,” read the banner fans held aloft – referencing Arne Slot’s birthplace – as he walked out of the tunnel for his first Liverpool Premier League home game in charge.
By the end, the Dutchman was on the pitch giving a thumbs up and waving as supporters gave him and his team a standing ovation following a 2-0 win over Brentford.
No fist pumps. No running around in excitement.
The post-Jurgen Klopp era at Anfield started in understated fashion.
“This support is not something we take for granted,” said Slot, who had headed straight for the tunnel after his first league game against Ipswich.
At Anfield, in front of Liverpool’s fans, he seemed much more at home.
“We know it constantly has to be earned and that the only way to do this is by giving absolutely everything we have on and off the pitch,” added Slot.