Arne Slot‘s press conference ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League clash with Crystal Palace covered a range of topics, as he previewed the upcoming game and discussed the team’s form. Here’s a rephrased breakdown of what he had to say:
On the importance of the game against Crystal Palace and going four points clear:
Slot emphasized that their main focus is on the upcoming match against Crystal Palace, rather than looking ahead to their games against Chelsea and Arsenal. He acknowledged the challenge Palace presents, having already earned results against top teams like Manchester United and Chelsea. Slot noted the difficulty of a 12:30 pm kickoff after a midweek Champions League game, especially against a team that has had more time to prepare. However, he stressed that this is part of playing at a top club and they are prepared for the challenge. He added that looking at the league table would only be meaningful after the weekend’s fixtures, not just after one game.
On Ryan Gravenberch’s progress and Mohamed Salah’s continued excellence:
Slot praised the quality of both Gravenberch and Salah, saying their strong performances are largely due to their individual talents. He highlighted Salah’s goal in their recent game and how it was made possible by Trent Alexander-Arnold’s overlapping run, creating space for Salah to finish. Slot also discussed how Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté’s distribution plays a crucial role in allowing players like Gravenberch to thrive by feeding attacking players. He emphasized that these individual performances stem from the team’s collective effort.
On new contracts at the club:
When asked about potential new contracts, Slot humorously noted how often he is asked this question. He didn’t provide any new information, saying that updates would have to wait until after the international break.
On Gravenberch’s potential for further improvement:
Slot explained that Liverpool’s focus on signing younger players, like Gravenberch, is strategic. At a club like Liverpool, young players are expected to develop, and Gravenberch is no exception. Having played more 90-minute matches this season than in the past two seasons, Gravenberch is adapting well to the team’s demands. However, Slot pointed out the challenge of maintaining this form while playing every three days.
On Crystal Palace’s season and what to expect on Saturday:
Slot reiterated that judging teams after just a few games can be difficult. Despite some mixed results, Palace has proven capable of competing with top sides, like in their performances against Manchester United and Chelsea. Slot also noted that while Palace may not have started the season as they would have liked, they are a strong side that will likely improve as the season progresses.
On managing players’ minutes during a busy schedule:
Slot clarified that his primary focus is on the upcoming game against Palace, rather than thinking too far ahead. He joked about the statistic that Liverpool had 10 players who have played the full 90 minutes of every match, suggesting it’s true if the journalists said so. He also mentioned that the difference between this international break and the last is that they will have an extra day of rest, which will be beneficial for players returning from international duty.
On Darwin Nunez’s adaptation to Liverpool’s style of play:
Slot discussed how the coaching staff is working to optimize Nunez’s positioning on the pitch, as his style differs from other forwards like Diogo Jota. While Nunez didn’t score in his last game due to being offside, Slot emphasized the importance of adjusting the team’s play to suit each player’s strengths. He also pointed out that Liverpool’s wingers have been scoring more frequently than their strikers, which might be something they need to address.
On the potential of getting carried away by being top of the table:
Slot dismissed the idea that Liverpool players would be overly excited about being top of the table after just six games, given their experience. Players like Van Dijk, Salah, and Alexander-Arnold have already won the Premier League and Champions League with Liverpool, so they know how to stay grounded. Slot stressed that if the team doesn’t perform well against Palace, it won’t be due to overconfidence but rather a recognition of how challenging Premier League matches are.
On early kick-offs and their impact:
Slot acknowledged that, compared to the Netherlands, the English football schedule is less forgiving for teams playing in Europe. He suggested that television scheduling likely plays a part in the frequent 12:30 pm kick-offs for Liverpool. However, he downplayed the idea that early kick-offs are particularly challenging, pointing out that training sessions at Liverpool often take place around the same time. Instead, he argued that away games are inherently difficult, regardless of the kick-off time, citing statistics from last season to support his point.
Slot provided insight into the challenges of managing a team competing on multiple fronts while maintaining individual performances. He reinforced Liverpool’s focus on the upcoming match against Crystal Palace, refusing to get distracted by league standings or future fixtures.
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