Liverpool’s coach, Arne Slot, acknowledged increasing pressure following a troubling sequence of losses, as the team struggles to maintain its standing in the Premier League. On Thursday, Slot reflected on the team’s recent performance, which has seen them lose nine of their last twelve matches across all competitions. This includes a significant 4-1 defeat to PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League, marking the third consecutive match in which Liverpool has lost by three goals or more.
Despite the disappointing results, Slot stated he felt secure in his position. Yet, he recognized the weight of expectations that comes with managing a prestigious club like Liverpool. “There’s a lot of pressure if you work or play at a top club and even more so if you start losing more games than this club, or these players or this manager, is used to,” he said. “But there was a lot of pressure last season as well for us to win the league, and now it’s a different kind of pressure because we’ve lost so many games.”
Title Defense Falters
Liverpool’s defense of its Premier League title is faltering, as the team currently sits in twelfth place, a staggering 11 points behind first-place Arsenal. The team’s recent form has been dismal, with six losses in their last seven league matches. Slot’s debut season at Anfield had been remarkable, culminating in a record-equaling 20th league crown achieved with a notable ten-point lead over Arsenal. Expectations were high for Slot to replicate that success, especially after a summer transfer window that saw Liverpool invest approximately $500 million (£377 million) in new talent, including stars like Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz.
As Liverpool prepares to face West Ham on Sunday, the pressure to improve results intensifies. Slot emphasized the team’s commitment to fighting through challenges: “We fight on and we try to improve. That’s what we all try. In the end, it’s about doing what this club is about, keep fighting and no matter how difficult it is, we have to fight together.”
Injury Updates and Team Morale
In a moment of good news, goalkeeper Alisson has returned to training after missing the match against PSV due to illness. Meanwhile, Wirtz is expected to resume training ahead of the West Ham encounter after dealing with a muscle issue. Slot also provided an update on Hugo Ekitike, who left the match against PSV with a back problem. He stated that the injury is not anticipated to be a significant concern.
As Liverpool approaches this crucial match, the team’s performance will be closely scrutinized. The outcome could have lasting implications for Slot’s tenure and the club’s ambitions for the rest of the season.