Arne Slot aims dig at Man City supporters ahead of Etihad showdown

It’s often the atmosphere that defines these big away days, and Arne Slot has already made it clear exactly what he expects when Liverpool travel to face Manchester City.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL EMPIRE OF THE KOP APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

The Dutchman didn’t just speak about tactics or form ahead of the FA Cup quarter-final, he also delivered a subtle but unmistakable message about the supporters inside the Etihad.

Slot backs Liverpool fans to make the difference

Speaking at the AXA Training Centre via Liverpool FC’s official channels, Slot reflected on the contrast between playing at Anfield and going away to City.

He said: “As you said, the first half at Anfield, City was dominating ball possession.

“You could also change the question and say how impressive was it that you dominated ball possession in the second half, because how many teams can dominate ball possession against Man City?”

That point highlights the progress we’ve made, particularly when you compare it to earlier meetings this season.

The Liverpool boss added: “We have a big step forward compared to the game we played at the Etihad, but now we have to show this as well in their stadium, which is always more difficult than having 60,000 people at Anfield that are helping you out.”

That reference to Anfield’s energy is key, because it’s something we’ve clearly missed in recent away performances.

‘Wouldn’t be surprised’ – Slot’s cheeky City fan comment

However, it was his final remark that will grab the headlines.

Slot pointed out the FA Cup allocation could work in our favour, before making a bold claim about the atmosphere.

He said: “The good thing is it’s an FA Cup tie, so we have more fans than we usually have in an away game.

“And as we know from our fans, they will be loud, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they would even be louder than the fans of City.”

It’s a cheeky comment, but one that reflects the belief inside the camp that our supporters can still play a huge role, even away from home.

That backing might be needed more than ever too, especially with both Chris Sutton and Paul Merson predicting a City win, largely due to our inconsistency in recent weeks.

With a Champions League clash against PSG looming just days later, this tie sits in a tricky position for us, but if Slot gets his wish and the away end delivers, it could tilt the balance in a game that many are already writing us off in.

The post Arne Slot aims dig at Man City supporters ahead of Etihad showdown appeared first on The Empire of The Kop.