Arne Slot Drops Major Hint Over Liverpool’s New Vice-Captain | OneFootball

Arne Slot Confirms Liverpool Vice-Captain Decision Behind Closed Doors

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has already chosen his new vice-captain, though he’s keeping the identity close to his chest — for now. While speculation continues to swirl among fans and pundits alike, the man selected already knows his fate, even if his teammates do not.

The vice-captain’s armband became available earlier this summer following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s high-profile move to Real Madrid. The Scouser had held the role for two years and his departure left a gap in Liverpool’s official leadership structure. Slot, ever the tactician, appears to have addressed that quietly behind the scenes.

Slot’s Leadership Values Shine Through

Speaking after Liverpool’s 3-1 pre-season victory over Yokohama F. Marinos, Slot revealed the decision has already been made.

“The group doesn’t know yet. I did talk to the individuals already, so the one that’s going to be vice-captain already knows. Everybody likes to have leaders in the team, and in modern football you don’t see that that much anymore,” he said via liverpoolfc.com.

“I have the privilege that I have a few of them, so experienced players that are not only experienced but understand the game and can be a voice inside the group and during the game, so that’s always very helpful.”

Photo: IMAGO

Slot’s comments reflect a growing trend in football: formal titles may matter less than consistent leadership on the pitch. Still, the vice-captain role holds symbolic weight, especially in a club steeped in tradition like Liverpool.

Strong Options Already in the Squad

Virgil van Dijk remains Liverpool’s captain, leading a senior group that also includes Andy Robertson, Mohamed Salah and Alisson Becker. On paper, one of those three seems the natural choice for vice-captain.

All are influential figures with years of experience at the club. Salah, a global icon and Liverpool’s talisman for much of the past decade, commands the respect of teammates. Alisson, often the calming presence at the back, has proven time and again that he thrives under pressure. Robertson, tenacious and consistent, already carries the authority of a leader.

But Slot’s hint suggests he might not go the obvious route.

Possible Outsiders to Step Up

Endo wore the armband during the closing stages of the Yokohama match, a nod to his captaincy experience with Japan. However, the midfielder’s limited minutes at club level may count against him in this decision.

Other names worth considering include Dominik Szoboszlai, the current captain of Hungary, and Ibrahima Konaté, who has recently captained France. Both are young, yet carry themselves like veterans. Their international leadership experience could be exactly the kind of energy Slot wants in Liverpool’s next vice-captain.

Eyes on the Future as Liverpool Defend Their Crown

Slot’s quiet confidence, both in his decision-making and in his squad, is exactly what Liverpool need heading into the 2025/26 campaign. Fresh off a Premier League title in his debut season, the Dutchman is building more than a team — he’s shaping a culture.

With a core of strong voices in the dressing room, Liverpool are well-equipped to maintain their high standards, even as responsibilities shift and new leaders emerge.

The vice-captain may not have been officially unveiled, but the message is clear: this Liverpool side, under Arne Slot, will not be lacking in leadership.