Liverpool's head coach, Arne Slot, has strongly defended the club's summer spending, estimated to be around £450 million, while also taking a swipe at critics, particularly "pundits that favor other clubs". Slot's comments came after Liverpool's transfer activity drew considerable attention, especially the acquisition of Alexander Isak for a British record of £125 million. In total, Liverpool brought in eight players, all aged 25 or under, signaling a long-term investment strategy.
Slot addressed the media, expressing his irritation with the constant focus on Liverpool's expenditure. He pointed out that while the £450 million figure is widely discussed, the club also recouped nearly £300 million through player sales. Slot emphasized that to strengthen the squad, such investment was necessary. He also suggested that if Liverpool were to sell a player like Dominik Szoboszlai, his value would also be around £100 million.
Slot believes the focus on the money Liverpool has spent is a compliment, indicating the high regard in which the new players are held. He added that Liverpool conducted excellent business, bringing in talented players while also lowering the average age of the squad. The club's strategy differs from some other teams that prefer to acquire older, more experienced players, as Liverpool is focusing on younger players with high potential. Slot used Luis Diaz as an example, stating that in four or five years, the club could potentially sell him for a significant fee, but that would be harder to do if he were already 32.
Slot also highlighted Liverpool's transfer model, which involves generating funds through player sales and on-field success. He credited the club's ownership and staff for their work in the transfer window, noting that they have created their own budget by selling players and winning the Premier League. Slot pointed out that Liverpool's net spend over the past two years is between £125 million and £150 million, during which time they also won the league. He suggested that Liverpool's approach should be an example for other clubs, demonstrating how to bring in talented players and generate income through trading, sales, and winning titles.
Liverpool's new signings include Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Giorgi Mamadarshvili, Hugo Ekitike, Giovanni Leoni, Armin Pecsi, Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak. Slot's defense of Liverpool's spending underscores the club's belief in their long-term strategy and their commitment to building a successful team for the future. He hopes that the team can improve from last season.