Liverpool manager Arne Slot addressed the media ahead of the club’s Champions League meeting with Lille, offering a grounded assessment of his side despite their unbeaten run and top position in the group.
Slot was informed of Brentford manager Thomas Frank’s recent praise, calling Liverpool “the best team in the world.” While appreciative of the compliment, Slot dismissed the notion, saying the Reds have “won nothing yet” and must stay focused, adding that such praise “means nothing” until trophies follow.
The Liverpool boss also spoke at length about Darwin Núñez, describing consistency as the hardest quality to maintain in football. Slot said only a handful of players in world football perform at the highest level every three days and hopes Núñez can grow into that category.
With Liverpool already securing top spot, Slot criticized the new Champions League format, noting that finishing first no longer guarantees an easier opponent. He pointed out that giants like PSG can still fall into lower positions, making knockout draws unpredictable. Still, the most important thing, he said, is Liverpool’s momentum and confidence heading into later rounds.
Slot also praised Lille’s form, saying he’s unsurprised by their success this season after watching them defeat Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid. He emphasized their consistency and expects a high-energy challenge at Anfield.
On Liverpool’s own performances, Slot acknowledged the increase in goals and chances created but noted the team has also conceded more. He highlighted recent improvements as players grow more familiar with the system and with each other, saying the squad is moving “in the right direction.”
Asked about beating big teams, Slot dismissed any special significance, stating Liverpool players are accustomed to winning big fixtures and must approach every match — whether against top clubs or smaller sides — with the same confidence and expectation to win.
He reiterated Liverpool’s aim to maintain a perfect group-stage record, stating they will not play for just the one point needed to finish top but will “go for all three.”
Slot provided updates on Joe Gomez and Diogo Jota, saying both are recovering and expected back within weeks, though timelines remain uncertain. He explained his use of Luis Díaz centrally is partly to protect Jota, who is injury-prone.
He also spoke highly of Gravenberch, calling him a “special player” unlike anyone else in the squad in how he protects the ball and drives the team forward.
Finally, Slot addressed the competition between Núñez and Jota for the striker role. With Jota sidelined, he said this is a major chance for Núñez to seize the position, score goals, and prove his importance to the team.
Slot ended by encouraging supporters to share their thoughts ahead of another crucial European night at Anfield.
