Liverpool head coach Arne Slot faced the media ahead of Wednesday’s European clash with Qarabag, offering updates on injuries, defensive availability, fixture congestion and speculation surrounding the transfer window. 

Squad News and Fitness

Arne Slot confirmed that both Joe Gomez and Ibrahima Konaté will miss Wednesday’s match, leaving Liverpool light in central defence. With those absences, Virgil van Dijk will be the only recognised centre-back available for selection against Qarabag. 

When asked whether Joe Gomez’s injury could influence Liverpool’s transfer strategy, the manager played down the idea of any immediate reaction. He revealed that Joe Gomez is expected to return in a “relatively short time,” suggesting the club do not view his absence as long-term or disruptive enough to alter current plans.

However, there was more positive news regarding Andy Robertson, confirming that the Scotland international is fit and available to feature. His availability comes amid ongoing speculation linking the left-back with a potential move to Tottenham. Addressing the rumours, Arne Slot said that he “expects him to stay”.

Squad Depth and Season Context

Pressed on concerns around squad depth, particularly in defence, Arne Slot pointed to last season’s Premier League title as evidence of effective squad management. He highlighted that one contributing factor was Liverpool playing fewer matches after their Champions League campaign ended in the last 16, following elimination by Paris Saint-Germain.

The manager suggested that reduced fixture congestion allowed the squad to remain fresher and meant that they had “a week to prepare for games”. 

With injuries mounting at the back and a challenging run of fixtures ahead, Arne Slot insisted that “we want to be competitive in every competition.” He will certainly be hoping that his side can secure a top eight finish in the Champions League and avoid the extra playoff round.