From the Netherlands: Arne Slot fan of Japan striker

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Arne Slot, Liverpool’s manager, is a strong admirer of Japanese striker Ayase Ueda, currently playing for Feyenoord. Ueda joined Feyenoord in the summer of 2023 and initially played a backup role behind Santiago Gimenez. Despite a modest first season, Slot recognized Ueda’s potential early on, even when others doubted his ability to become a key player.

Ueda has made a remarkable improvement this season, scoring 19 goals in 21 games across all competitions, including 18 goals in just 15 Eredivisie matches. This marks a significant progression from his previous season's nine goals in 31 games. Slot’s faith in Ueda has been vindicated, especially considering the striker’s standout performance against Benfica in the Champions League last season.

Dutch pundit Hans Kraay Junior highlighted that while Ueda initially struggled to secure a starting position due to Gimenez's strong form, Slot consistently expressed confidence in Ueda’s capabilities. According to Kraay, Slot deserves recognition for backing Ueda through his development phases.

Ueda’s success under Slot’s management culminated in a transfer to Liverpool in the summer of 2024. The Liverpool manager's belief in the striker's potential contrasts with some early skepticism about Ueda's impact. His rise from a supportive squad player to a key goal scorer evidences Slot’s keen eye for talent and trust in developing players over time.

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