On October 23, 2024, RB Leipzig played host to Liverpool for a gripping 'league phase' encounter in the Champions League set against the backdrop of Saxony.

At this juncture, the Reds were just beginning to sweep through England and abroad with Arne Slot's tactics catching teams off-guard – but a rare occasion presented itself where the opposition had valuable insider knowledge that could tip the balance in their favor.

"He wants to play a dominant style of football and overcome the opponent with possession," revealed Lutsharel Geertruida to Leipzig ahead of the clash.



Lutsharel Geertruida could be the ideal Trent Alexander-Arnold replacement for Liverpool.

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While 'blessing in disguise' might be too strong a phrase to describe the departure of a one-of-a-kind player like Alexander-Arnold, the timing couldn't be better for Slot to build the team he envisaged, to continue the mission as he originally planned, much like how he transformed Feyenoord into the powerhouse that Geertruida was integral to.

Liverpool's average Premier League possession under Slot - 58 per cent - shows they're controlling games, but not quite to the same degree as Feyenoord did in the Eredivisie during his final season at De Kuip - 61.8 per cent.

Part of Slot's transition to English football has involved working with the legacy left by Jurgen Klopp and tweaking his own system where necessary.

One player who needed this adjustment was Alexander-Arnold, who this year has shifted away from moving into midfield to concentrate more on his right-back responsibilities.

In contrast, Geertruida was given the freedom to oscillate between the same role, defensive midfield and central defence, and the difference in how Liverpool and Feyenoord dominate is clear to see.

Alexander-Arnold's creative edge is largely due to his effective long-range passing (30+ yards).

At their prime, Slot's Feyenoord, despite facing less formidable opposition, managed to establish a stronger presence higher up the pitch than Liverpool have under the same coach