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Arne Slot’s pre match press conference ahead of Liverpool’s meeting with Brighton gave fans plenty to think about. It was one of those sessions where the manager was asked the same question in ten different ways, yet he stayed calm, steady and focused. With the Premier League clash around the corner, Arne Slot walked through everything from Mohamed Salah’s situation to squad depth, recent form and what he expects from Brighton.
Salah’s Situation: Slot Keeps It Private
Naturally, the first topic was Mohamed Salah. Reporters pushed hard for clarity, but Slot made it clear that the next steps depend on a private conversation. He said:
“I will have a conversation with Mo this morning and the outcome of that conversation determines how it will look tomorrow.”
When asked what he needed from Salah, Slot kept it simple.
“What I need is a conversation with him and I think the next time I speak about Mo should be with him and not in here.”
The same response came when journalists tried to rephrase the question. Whether they asked about apologies, defensive work or communication issues, Slot repeated that he has already spoken with Salah, with Salah’s representatives, and will speak to him again today. His line stayed firm.
“You can keep on trying but there is not much more to say about it.”
It was clear Slot would not say anything to the media before speaking directly to Salah. The message was respectful, direct and consistent.
Four Games Unbeaten and a Team Showing Grit
Slot shifted the focus to the pitch. Liverpool have gone four matches without losing, and he believes the team’s effort is the main reason. He explained,
“Apart from being unbeaten, I think we’ve shown we have been a team in the last four games that were indeed difficult to beat, that it was difficult to create chances against us.”
With four games packed into ten days and several players unavailable, he praised the squad again.
“It’s a compliment to the players that were available, how they managed to get some results and the work rate they’ve put in.”
It wasn’t a boast. It was a recognition of the mental and physical work required during a tough stretch.
Alisson’s Return Brings Confidence
Alisson Becker returning from injury is a boost, but Slot also took time to appreciate Giorgi Mamardashvili.
“It’s a compliment to the players that were available, how they managed to get some results and the work rate they’ve put in.”
He added that Liverpool hardly conceded chances in most recent games, giving credit to the entire defensive structure. Still, no one denies the calm Alisson brings. Slot called his return “helpful” and “nice” to have.
Why Liverpool Are Struggling Both Home and Away
Some wondered if Liverpool’s problems at Anfield were becoming a pattern, but Slot pushed back.
“I could completely understand this question if our away form would have been outstanding, but I don’t think that’s the situation as well.”
He said the struggles have appeared both home and away, and the reasons have been discussed many times, but that still does not excuse the losses.
“There are reasons for that but never enough reasons to lose so many times.”
He made it clear that the issues are bigger than home advantage.
How Brighton Could Target Liverpool
When asked how Brighton might approach the game, Slot said the trend is obvious.
“The league has become much more direct. But then there’s the league and then there’s Liverpool and how teams play against us in terms of how direct they play.”
Direct in this context means longer passes, fast transitions and a quick attempt to bypass midfield. Slot said teams use similar plans every week. He pointed to examples from the Manchester City vs Real Madrid match, saying that teams can break down compact sides through long range shots, set pieces or individuals who dominate one on one. He also referenced Sunderland’s approach in a recent match, where Liverpool struggled to create clear chances. It was clear he believes Brighton will use a similar blueprint.
Isak and Ekitike Are Learning Each Other’s Game
Slot spoke openly about the early stages of the partnership between Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike.
“The more they will play together, the more they will adapt to each other and the better they will co operate.”
He compared them to Inter’s Thuram and Martinez, who have played together for a long time, but said he saw “promising things” from Isak and Ekitike in the San Siro. He also noted that Isak suffered a knock during that game and would be assessed before deciding whether to start him.
Playing Direct Is Not Just About Height
A question came up about using Liverpool’s tall forwards in a direct style. Slot offered a thoughtful explanation.
“I don’t think height always tells you if a player is perfectly equipped for that style.”
He said some tall players struggle in duels and some shorter ones excel. He explained that Isak and Ekitike are currently more effective with balls played in behind rather than long balls into their bodies.
About Ekitike’s progress, Slot said:
“I see him trying, trying, trying to do this better and better and better. But in that part of his game, there’s still room for improvement.”
It was a good insight into the tactical evolution Liverpool are working toward.
Squad Depth, Exhaustion and a Brutal Calendar
Slot did not hide how demanding the season has been. Liverpool have had three stretches of three games in seven days, which is exhausting for a squad missing many experienced players. He said, “I am almost happy that we’re out of the League Cup”, highlighting how difficult it would have been to continue juggling so many fixtures with so few senior outfield players.
He added:
“Sometimes players need rest as well. Look at Dominik, look at Virgil, look at Ibou, look at Ryan, they have played so many minutes because other ones weren’t available.”
He is relieved the upcoming schedule finally gives them breaks between matches and allows injured players to return.
Who Decides Whether Salah Plays
Slot clarified how decisions work inside the club.
“When it comes to the decision making of the line up or the squad, they always leave that open to me.”
He said he discusses everything with Richard Hughes but the final call on who plays remains his responsibility.
Does Slot Want Salah to Stay
Reporters tried again to circle back to the big topic. Slot kept the same line but offered one small clue.
“I have no reasons not wanting him to stay.”
Even then, he refused to go deeper, insisting Salah is the first person he will discuss it with.
More Preparation Time at Last
With two straight weeks without midweek fixtures, Slot sees clear benefits.
“Training time helps to get connection going.”
But he added that players who have logged heavy minutes will not be pushed too hard. He also pointed out that Brighton have had more days to prepare and Liverpool only trained today after returning from Milan. Still, he sees this upcoming rhythm as a positive shift for the squad.“Training time helps to get connection going.”
Final Thoughts Heading Into the Brighton Match
This press conference showed a manager who understands the pressure but refuses to let noise distract him. Slot remained calm through repeated questions, praised the players who have worked tirelessly, and acknowledged the challenges honestly. Liverpool enter the Brighton match unbeaten in four and slowly regaining their structure and confidence. The Salah question will continue to draw attention, but Slot made one thing clear. Before the public hears anything new, Salah will hear it first. Brighton will bring a real test, but Liverpool arrive knowing what needs to improve and what has already begun to strengthen.
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YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com