Sunday’s Premier League title win felt like a moment of relief, more than anything.

Anfield was awash with red as Liverpool sealed their inevitable fate in style, a 5-1 rout over Tottenham Hotspur.

As the celebrations unfolded, there was joy and a deep sense of pride and it was the kind that came from finally getting over the line and having the moment to celebrate with everyone, after thirty-five years without.

Supporters lived through the 2020 triumph, but couldn’t bask in the glory the correct way – due to the global pandemic.

Slot’s Statement: How Liverpool’s New Era Under Arne Slot Compares to Klopp’s Legacy	John Barnes feels signing new players ‘not a priority’ for champions Liverpool	Arne Slot tipped to make 4 Liverpool players 'available for transfer' including Darwin Nunez

At the centre of it all stood Arne Slot, a man who arrived with doubts swirling and has answered every one with quiet authority.

He didn’t just inherit a team, he inherited expectations, pressure and history – and somehow, molded it into something fearless and new.

A new era has begun at Liverpool and at the heart of it, are the players.

The one’s that carried a city’s hopes on their backs with an overriding expectation for success.

Here are the five who have truly defined this side, setting the tone for a team that feels ready to dominate for years to come.

VIRGIL VAN DIJKCarl Recine/Getty Images.

With little change to the playing squad last summer, Virgil van Dijk continues to remain a cornerstone of the team.

The defender’s imposing presence, calmness under pressure and ability to organise the backline have been key to the team’s consistency over the course of this season.

Having been given the privilege of the Liverpool captaincy in 2023, van Dijk has taken all responsibilties on board and lead like a true captain, should.

His leadership, both on and off the pitch, makes him an integral part of the transition into this new era, despite turning 34 in July.

The reward of a new contract this month has shown the importance he brings to the team, and that he can continue to help shape the future of the football club that hopes Sunday’s celebrations will just be the star of something special with Arne Slot.

Van Dijk represents the blend of old and new that has come to show under the new structure, and can push the club to even bigger heights, in this new era.

ALEXIS MAC ALLISTERGetty Images.

Alexis Mac Allister has been a standout ever since making the move from Brighton and Hove Albion, at the beginning of last season and has pushed to a higher level with the influence of Arne Slot.

The Argentine has quickly become a fan-favourite at Anfield and fitted in seamlessly to the new manager’s vision.

Whether dictating play or making key forward passes, Mac Allister’s influence goes a long way.

His impact was undeniable in the Premier League title-clinching victory over Tottenham, with the midfielder lashing in a thunderous strike of five whilst controlling the game, in his very own way.

But Mac Allister’s brilliance has become a reoccurring theme this season.

He’s not just a cog in the system, he has become a game-changer that has redefined the Liverpool midfield in more ways than one.

MOHAMED SALAHAlamy.

Mohamed Salah’s place on this list is not up for debate.

The Egyptian King has been a consistent force for Liverpool since his arrival, and under Slot, his imprtance has only grown.

While the tactical focus has shifted slightly, Salah continues to be the club’s most reliable goal scorer.

As the winger becomes older in age, he has had to adapt his game to become more creative, whilst managing to keep his goalscoring touch.

A remarkable 47 goal contributions in the Premier League this season makes the Egyptian the highest contributor across a thirty-eight game season in English top-flight history and he has no signs of slowing down, following a two-year contract renewal at the start of the month.

Salah’s commitment to the club and his relentless drive make him not only a symbol of Liverpool’s attacking potency, but also of their continued success with a fresh face in their corner.

DOMINIK SZOBOSZLAILiverpool FC via Getty Images.

Dominik Szoboszlai has added a fresh dimension to Liverpool’s new-look midfield.

The Hungarian has become a pivotal figure through his pressing, passing range and ability to play defence-splitting passes.

Arne Slot’s system demands a certain tempo in intensity and intelligence, with Szoboszlai providing both and becoming the engine in the Dutchman’s midfield.

He has brought a fresh, dynamic energy that Liverpool had been craving, aggressive off the ball and slick in possession.

Slot’s tactical flexibilty has also allowed the Hungarian to express his creative side a lot more than his first season, but as impressive as he has been, there is a sense that Szoboszlai is only scratching the surface.

Despite his clear potential, there’s a feeling that the full package is yet to truly arrive, with a lot more to give in the seasons to come.

CONOR BRADLEYRyan Brown/Propaganda.

Conor Bradley has emerged as one of the standout young talents of the new era.

Initially seen as backup to Trent Alexander-Arnold, the right-back has quickly proved that he belongs in Liverpool’s starting eleven.

His energy, defensive awareness and ability to contribute in attack have made him an invaluable asset in Arne Slot’s system and whilst continuing to develop under the guidance of his manager, Bradley has already grown into one of the most promising young full-backs across Europe.

Bradley’s sharp rise has symbolised Slot’s want to continue to build on the huge imprint of Jurgen Klopp on Liverpool’s youth.

There was fears the pathway for young players could narrow but the defender has proved the opposite.

His manager has embraced his talent, not just as cover but as a key player, recognising the bags of potential in him.

Whilst Conor Bradley continues to take the opportunities given at Liverpool, there is no doubt that he will play a vital part in the club’s next chapter.

Together, this Liverpool side has already achieved what most couldn’t in Arne Slot’s debut campaign, but there remains even more room to improve.

This is a team that honours the standards set before, but plays with a new energy and identity.

If this season has proved anything, it’s that the club’s future is in safe hands and is already being driven by a manager and group of players determined to rewrite history.

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