From Dutch stadiums to one of the most prestigious benches in world football, Arne Slot’s rise has been steady. Before Liverpool, he built his career quietly in the Netherlands.
He joined Liverpool ahead of the 2024–25 season, taking over after Jurgen Klopp’s departure.
Before Champions League nights, and before the pressure of the Premier League, there was another version of him. One built on long seasons, quiet consistency, and hard-earned respect in Dutch football.
Across the Eredivisie, he recorded 208 appearances and scored 27 goals. He was trusted because he understood space and timing. He was the kind of midfielder who made teams better without needing the spotlight.
His early years were full of steady growth. He developed through the lower leagues, helped a small club gain promotion, and then proved he belonged at the top level.
He enjoyed a golden season where his team finished fourth, their best league result in over 50 years.
That run even earned him a rare taste of Europe, facing Newcastle United in the UEFA Cup. Later, he became a senior figure at another club, guiding younger players and helping teams survive tough seasons.
Then came the final chapter of his playing days. He returned to where it all started. He captained the side.
He led them to another promotion and was named Player of the Year. It was the perfect ending before he stepped into coaching.
Now, that club, PEC Zwolle, have honoured their history with a 115th anniversary kit for the 2025–26 season.
The white Adidas shirt has green trim, green shoulder stripes, and a gold patch that reads “115 JAAR PEC ZWOLLE” with “Limited Edition” below.
The Zonneplan sponsor appears in black. The kit was officially unveiled on January 22, 2026.
Slot featured in the launch alongside Jaap Stam. It was a rare moment. A Liverpool manager returning to his roots to mark a club milestone.
From a Liverpool point of view, this shows where Slot’s values come from. Loyalty. Identity. Growth.
The same man who built his career step by step is now leading one of the biggest clubs in the world. And he has not forgotten where it all began.
— PEC Zwolle (@PECZwolle) January 22, 2026
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