Liverpool FC News: Mikel Arteta makes Arne Slot ADMISSION after friendly clash

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has admitted that he's been impressed by the opening weeks of Arne Slot's tenure at Liverpool following a friendly clash between the two sides on Thursday. 

Liverpool beat Arsenal 2-1 during their tour of the United States in the early hours of the morning, with goals from Mohamed Salah and Fabio Carvalho securing the second victory of the Slot era.

The Reds had already beaten Real Betis 1-0 in North America, with Dominik Szoboszlai the goalscorer on that occasion.

Thursday's match with the Gunners was fiercely competed and both sides were able to take positives from the pre-season duel. But it was also an opportunity for Arteta to scope out new Liverpool coach Slot ahead of the 2024/25 Premier League campaign.

It's fair to say that the Arsenal boss has been impressed by what he's seen from the Dutchman so far.

MIKEL ARTETA HEAPS PRAISE ON ARNE SLOT

Speaking to the media after the defeat to Liverpool, Arteta was asked about what he had made of Slot's short time at Liverpool.

"We all have to start competing and earn our right to show how good we are but yes, the team [Liverpool] is looking good in the games that I've watched in pre-season. It's clear the idea that he wants to implement and it was a tough game for us," Arteta replied.

On the changes he's seen between Slot's Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp's, Arteta said: "There are certain differences and every coach has their touch. There are certain individuals with very particular characteristics that makes the team as well.

"One is the style of play and then it's the DNA of certain players that always leave their stamp on a team. You can see what he's doing."

Liverpool will play Manchester United in their final US clash before returning to Merseyside. Slot's first home game at Anfield will take place when the Reds meet Sevilla in a friendly on 11 August.

The Reds take on newly-promoted Ipswich Town in their first Premier League match of the Slot reign on 17 August.