Liverpool's manager, Arne Slot, believes that the club's hierarchy shares his understanding of the factors contributing to the team's recent slump in Premier League form. The Reds have suffered a string of disappointing results, including a 3-2 defeat at Brentford and a 3-0 home loss to Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup, their sixth loss in seven matches across all competitions. This poor run has seen them slip to sixth in the league standings, seven points behind leaders Arsenal.
Slot, who is facing increasing pressure to turn things around, has defended his squad selection and tactical approach despite the criticism. He stated that conversations with the club's owner, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), chief executive of football Michael Edwards, and sporting director Richard Hughes, have been consistent, with all parties recognizing similar issues.
The manager pointed to several factors that have contributed to Liverpool's struggles. One key issue is the lack of a proper pre-season for several players. He also highlighted the misfortune with injuries, which has reduced squad depth and forced key players to play more than desired, increasing the risk of further injuries. Slot said he is happy with the quality of the team and is convinced by the strategy and policy the team has.
Liverpool's defensive frailties have been a major concern during this period. They have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last 10 games and have conceded the first goal in each of their last seven. Slot acknowledged the team's struggles in defending against long balls and set-pieces, which opponents have successfully exploited. The team has conceded from a long throw, and has defended 15 set pieces well out of 16, but "at this moment where 15 isn't enough". Despite these defensive issues, Slot has stated that he will not abandon his attacking principles. He believes that the team has enough quality to outscore their opponents and that focusing solely on defense would be a mistake.
Slot has also emphasized the need for his players to physically compete in every Premier League game. He said the quality of the players gives him confidence and the chances they create will eventually lead to these players scoring more. He is mainly focused on how he can change and evaluate the decisions made afterward and how to get a good performance.
Looking ahead, Liverpool faces a tough run of fixtures, including a Premier League clash with Aston Villa, a Champions League match against Real Madrid, and a league game against Manchester City. Slot is hoping that midfielder Ryan Gravenberch, who has been sidelined with an injury, will be fit to start against Aston Villa.
Despite the current challenges, Slot remains optimistic about Liverpool's long-term future. He believes that the summer investment in players has put the club in a good position. However, he acknowledged that the team needs to find answers to their recent struggles and quickly stabilize both tactically and mentally if they are to defend their title.
