Liverpool head coach Arne Slot faced the media this morning as his side prepare to return to Premier League action against Burnley. The Dutchman discussed Mohamed Salah’s return from AFCON, squad fitness, individual moments from recent games and Liverpool’s approach to the January transfer window.

As ever, the manager touched on injuries, player management and how the Reds look to build momentum.

Fitness and Squad Update

Arne Slot confirmed that Liverpool are close to full strength, with all players available for selection apart from the long-term absentees of Alexander Isak, Giovanni Leoni and now Conor Bradley. He also expressed his satisfaction at welcoming Mohamed Salah back into the squad following his AFCON involvement this weekend.

The manager stopped short of confirming his immediate involvement, explaining that the Champions League fixture against Marseille is being targeted as a potential return date but that the club will manage the forward’s workload carefully.

Handling Frustration and Competition

Credit: BBC

The Liverpool boss was asked about Andy Robertson’s situation and his contract, and he was quick to praise the Scotland captain’s professionalism. He said he had to “compliment” Robertson for the way he has conducted himself, labelling the Scotsman as “very mature” and emphasised that frustration over minutes is “natural” and something every ambitious player should feel.

He was keen to stress that internal competition is healthy and that managing expectations within a strong squad is part of maintaining high standards.

Learning Moments

Credit: Sky Sports

Reflecting on Dominik Szoboszlai’s error against Barnsley, he revealed he had spoken directly to the midfielder after the match. While describing it as “not his best moment”, the head coach framed the incident as part of a player’s development and learning process rather than something that would define him.

He reiterated his belief in the player’s quality and character, suggesting that how players respond to setbacks matters more than the mistake itself.

Transfers and Alignment

As expected, Arne Slot offered little insight into Liverpool’s plans for the January transfer window. He remained tight-lipped on potential incomings or outgoings but emphasised that “everyone is aligned” at the club, from recruitment staff to coaching and ownership.

The message was one of unity and calm, with no desire to be distracted by speculation as the season reaches an important stage with key games coming up in the Premier League and Champions League. .

Selection Decisions

Finally, he was asked about the possibility of a start for young full-back Calvin Ramsay against Burnley. While acknowledging the player’s potential, he was honest in stating that he currently believes he has “better options” available for the game.

Understanding the importance of the game and getting a positive result, Arne Slot described his side as currently not being in the “most ideal position” in the league but that they are “competing with a number of teams for fourth position”. This represents realism but a view that the club can still achieve success. 

Credit: Burnley Express

On the threat of Scott Parker’s Burnley, he said “they can make it really hard for teams”, as he referenced Liverpool’s 1-0 victory in the previous fixture where they needed a stoppage time goal. This time, he says it’ll be about finding “the ideal balance” and “showing what we can do from all the ball possession” as it’ll be a game where Liverpool will be expected to have more of the play. 

The side come into this eleven games unbeaten but Arne Slot admitted the “ideally…it’s eleven wins in a row”. This shows that whilst there’s been an improvement, he believes there’s still more to come. 

Verdict

Overall, the manager struck a composed and focused tone. With key players returning, competition for places increasing and a clarity behind the scenes on transfers and looking ahead, Arne Slot will hope his side can translate stability into a strong performance against Burnley as they resume their league campaign after Monday’s FA Cup success.