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Roy Keane has claimed that Arne Slot and Mikel Arteta’s contrasting mindsets could prove decisive in the Premier League title race this season.
Liverpool extended its advantage at the summit this weekend thanks to a 2-1 win over Everton at Anfield, while Arsenal dropped points at home to Manchester City. It could have been even worse were it not for Gabriel Martinelli’s dramatic injury-time equalizer at the Emirates, which cancelled out Erling Halaand’s opener.
Arteta’s team selection and willingness to take the initiative in games were questioned after the draw against City. That’s a recurring criticism for the ex-Everton midfielder, one levelled against him following last month’s 1-0 loss at Anfield.
Like in that match against Liverpool, Arteta once again named a cautious midfield trio of Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino on Sunday.
In comparison, Liverpool’s offensive approach has resulted in several entertaining fixtures this season, with late goals needed in five of the six league and European games.
In Keane’s eyes, Slot’s willingness to take risks means he has has the edge on Arteta. “This season, they [Liverpool] look like they are up for it,” the seven-time Premier League winner said in Sky Sports’ post-match coverage.
“Recruitment has been brilliant. The manager comes across very well, they’re digging deep and they’re a real goal threat.
"You talk about Arsenal’s lack of quality from open play and you look at Liverpool and how they’re attacking, even on a bad day you think they’re going to score two or three goals.
“They need to tighten up at the back, you worry about injuries, especially [Virgil] van Dijk. But if they keep everyone fit, options off the bench, you have got a manager who looks focused and never slips up; he comes across well.
“They’re digging deep and it will be very very difficult to stop. Momentum is a huge word in football and Liverpool have that already.”
Asked what the difference is between the Liverpool and Arsenal coaches, Keane replied: “Well, I believe Slot is going out to win matches and not afraid of giving up chances and losing goals.
“It might be nerve-wracking for some of the supporters who want to be tight at the back, but football is entertainment and when I was playing United we gave up goals, but we always felt we had two or three in us.
“It’s a different mindset, a different mindset for a manager. Whenever I look at Liverpool, they’re entertaining to watch. They’re finding ways to win. That is a brilliant trait to have.”
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