Arne Slot era slowly takes shape in Liverpool

Arne Slot has made his first significant move as the new Liverpool head coach by signing Ruben Peeters from his former club, Feyenoord. Slot is set to officially take over from Jurgen Klopp on June 1, after Klopp’s nearly nine-year tenure at Anfield came to an end.

Liverpool fans are eagerly anticipating the summer transfer window, hoping Slot can build on the team’s third-place finish in the Premier League for the 2023-24 season. Arne Slot is expected to make several changes to both the squad and backroom staff as he begins his Anfield project.

The initial addition to Slot’s coaching team has been confirmed with Ruben Peeters, who will join Liverpool as the first team lead physical performance coach. Peeters has spent the last three seasons as head of performance at Feyenoord, following a six-year stint as a physical coach at Belgian side KRC Genk.

Claes Agency, representing Peeters, announced his move to Liverpool in a LinkedIn post:

“Done deal by Claes Agency: Ruben Peeters to Liverpool FC! Ruben will be Liverpool FC’s first team lead physical performance coach, accompanying Arne Slot and Sipke Hulshoff. From KRC Genk to Feyenoord to the big stages at Liverpool FC. You’ll Never Walk Alone Ruben Peeters! Inspired by your future.”

In addition to Peeters, Slot is expected to bring Etienne Reijnen to Merseyside, while Mark Burchill and Craig McKee are anticipated to join new sporting director Richard Hughes from AFC Bournemouth.

Klopp’s departure has led to a significant overhaul of Liverpool’s backroom staff.

Long-time coaches and staff members including Pep Lijnders, Peter Krawietz, Vitor Matos, John Achterberg, Jack Robinson, Andreas Schlumberger, and Andreas Kornmayer have all exited the club.

Peeters will step into roles vacated by Schlumberger and Kornmayer, who were head of fitness and conditioning and head of recovery and performance, respectively.

Liverpool are also currently advertising for several key positions on LinkedIn, including a first team set piece coach, first team physiotherapist, and physical performance coach-strength and conditioning lead.

As Arne Slot is to begin his tenure, Liverpool supporters are keen to see how his new signings and coaching staff will shape the team’s future.