Three Liverpool Questions Arne Slot Must Answer as the Reds Set to Return to Premier League Action
Liverpool have returned from their tour of the USA, and the entire squad will gather today for training. Here’s what has emerged so far and what remains to be discovered from the pre-season activities.
With only 11 days remaining until Liverpool return to Premier League action under the new leadership of Arne Slot at Portman Road, home of Ipswich Town, preparations are intensifying. The countdown has been underway for some time, and the team’s readiness is ramping up.
Today marks a significant moment as several key players—Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Joe Gomez, Virgil van Dijk, and Cody Gakpo—returned to Kirkby on Sunday for pre-season testing. Alisson Becker joined them on Monday. On Tuesday, these players will reunite with their teammates who have been in the USA, forming a unified group once more.
At this point of the summer, Liverpool have yet to secure any new signings, questions remain regarding contract situations and potential transfer market activity. Supporters should stay tuned for further developments following the conclusion of the USA tour.
Center-back Pecking Order
Jarell Quansah’s selection as right center-back, with Ibrahima Konate to his left, against Manchester United was intriguing. This choice might indicate that Liverpool believe Konate is more effective on his “off” side. Alternatively, it could suggest that Quansah is emerging as the leading candidate to partner Virgil van Dijk at the start of the Premier League season.
The decision on this center-back pairing will be significant for manager Jürgen Klopp. While the situation could evolve over the course of the season, current indications show Quansah has the upper hand.
His pre-season performance, coupled with a strong finish to last season, supports the notion that he remains a key figure.
Fabio Carvalho’s Future
After a bid from Southampton for Fabio Carvalho was turned down, uncertainty surrounds his future. Leicester City is among other clubs showing interest.
Realistically, Carvalho may not see extensive playing time next season. Liverpool are seeking more than $19 million (£15 million/€17 million) for his transfer, and it remains unclear if any club will meet that price. Retaining Carvalho could be a viable option, though with Cody Gakpo and Luis Diaz being stronger options on the left flank, his role may be limited.
Carvalho’s future remains uncertain, a sentiment that also applies to Sepp van den Berg and others. Decisions are pending regarding loans for players like Ben Doak and Kaide Gordon.
Midfield Composition
Wataru Endo seems to be lower in the hierarchy at Liverpool, as evidenced by Curtis Jones being preferred in the number six role and Ryan Gravenberch starting over him against Manchester United while Dominik Szoboszlai was given a rest.
The recent tactical changes under Slot have altered Liverpool’s midfield setup, but the exact formation remains unclear.
Once Alexis Mac Allister returns fully, we’ll likely gain a better understanding of the midfield dynamics. Currently, Endo appears to be more of a squad player.
This situation could change if Liverpool acquire a top-tier number six, but Endo would still be valuable if he remains with the team.
In other Liverpool news, “A Few of Them” – Arne Slot Hints at Dropping Some Players in His Liverpool Squad Ahead of New Premier League Season
