Liverpool manager, Arne Slot has called on his squad to maintain their momentum following a strong finish to their pre-season campaign with consecutive wins over Athletic Club. The Reds delivered a commanding 4-1 victory in the first friendly, followed by a hard-fought 3-2 triumph at Anfield on Monday.
Softfootball reports that the head coach has expressed his satisfaction with the team’s overall performance. The Dutchman was particularly impressed by how his players balanced their attacking intent with solid defensive organisation throughout both encounters.
The 46-year-old Dutch coach made this known after his team had just showcased some of their new signings in a friendly victory over Athletic Club, with the goals still going to their established Premier League stars, Mohamed Salah who also missed a late penalty, and Cody Gakpo.
Speaking after the games as seen on Liverpool official website, Slot praised his side’s performance but underlined the importance of continued growth ahead of the new campaign, he thinks the creativity of new arrival Florian Wirtz can help offset the team’s loss of Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid this summer.
He said:
“I think there’s always room for improvement in every department. Like I said, we’ve added a few, in my opinion, extra weapons. So, Florian Wirtz has a lot of creativity in the final third.
“We’ve lost with Trent Alexander-Arnold a lot of creativity from the back. Trent’s crosses and picking out runners was so special.
“I think Flo has this quality as well in a totally different position. But he brings that creativity, the pace of Hugo, the pace of both full-backs Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong today.”
Arne Slot also acknowledged the growing strength of Liverpool’s rivals, adding:
“You always need to make the next step. Our competitors have not stood still. They have also improved their squad with signings, like us. So that’s why it’s going to be a very interesting Premier League in the upcoming year again.”
The new look Liverpool side flooded forward with confidence, chemistry and intent throughout the game on Monday but missed the presence of their captain, Virgil van Dijk at the back who was out due to illness.
The clash offered an insight for fans and the coaching staff into what a full-strength Liverpool side could look and operate like going into the new season.
