But, swift as Mac Allister's rise was, it was nonetheless a sign of Liverpool's enduring appeal that they could recruit him when in the Europa League. Slot was in the Champions League last season but, while Jurgen Klopp is a Champions League winner and four-time finalist, his predecessor was not.
The Dutchman nevertheless has particular reasons to relish Bologna's visit to Anfield. "I am privileged enough to work at Feyenoord where Champions League nights last season were also really special. People tell me it will be even more special here tomorrow," he said.
Slot hopes that Liverpool's one-year exile will render it a still more memorable occasion. "Our players have missed out on the Champions League for a year so when they step out on the pitch I want to feel like they feel ‘Ah, we missed it for a season,"" he said. "A club of this standard has to be ready and I'm hoping and expecting the same from our fans. I am hoping they feel this desire to show to Europe again. 'They missed us because of this' and that combination should hopefully lead to a very special night for everyone involved at Liverpool."
This story is from the October 02, 2024 edition of The Independent.
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This story is from the October 02, 2024 edition of The Independent.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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