Arne Slot's Press Conference: Liverpool's Injury News, Jeremy Jacquet Transfer, and the Man City Clash
After a 31-day wait, Liverpool finally secured a Premier League victory in 2026, beating Newcastle United. Now, they face Manchester City, who defeated them 3-0 at the Etihad Stadium in November. This upcoming match could significantly impact the race for a top-five spot, which has intensified since Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United all won last weekend, while Aston Villa lost.
Arne Slot will be asked about his team's performance against City, Liverpool's signing of Jeremy Jacquet, and the threat posed by City, who will bring Marc Guehi and Antoine Semenyo to Anfield. Paul Gorst will be in attendance for the 9 a.m. press conference, and you can follow the Reds boss's insights right here.
Slot on Jones: With 18 months left on his contract, Jones has been a consistent player. The team's need for midfielders in different positions has been a challenge, but Slot emphasizes the importance of keeping all available players.
Slot on Defending City: Slot discusses the tactical differences between City and Newcastle, highlighting the importance of controlling counters when facing City, who typically have more possession. He praises his team's performance against Newcastle, noting their ability to create chances without conceding many counters.
Slot on Kerkez: Slot talks about Kerkez's development, emphasizing the importance of patience and trust in young players. He believes Kerkez's potential will be realized with continued playing time.
Slot on Injuries: Slot confirms that Jeremie Frimpong is out for the weekend, but there's hope for Joe Gomez's return on Saturday. The team's defensive options are limited.
Slot on Jacquet: Slot praises Jacquet's talent and potential, describing him as a young, talented player who can improve and contribute to the team's short and long-term success. The club's interest in signing him is a testament to their model of acquiring young, developing players.
Slot on Man City: Slot reflects on the team's performance against City, noting their ability to compete with top teams. He emphasizes the importance of results in the final phase of the season and acknowledges City's strength.
Slot on Newcastle Game: Slot analyzes the team's performance against Newcastle, praising their ability to create chances and adjust their playing style. He highlights the importance of both on-ball and off-ball play in the Premier League.
Slot on Development: Slot discusses the team's development, noting their ability to compete with top teams. He emphasizes the importance of consistency and the team's ability to adapt to different opponents.
Slot on Off-Ball Play: Slot highlights the importance of off-ball play in the Premier League, praising Wirtz's improvement in this area.
Slot on Fitness: Slot acknowledges the team's fitness challenges, noting the need for players to adjust to the demands of the Premier League and Champions League. He expresses confidence in the team's ability to improve and compete in the upcoming games.
Slot on Long-Term Planning: Slot discusses the club's long-term planning, emphasizing the importance of developing players and maintaining a strong squad. He acknowledges the eventual transition after Virgil van Dijk's tenure, focusing on mid to long-term success.
Slot on City Clash: Slot reflects on the team's performance against City, emphasizing the importance of a strong result in the final phase of the season. He acknowledges City's strength and the need for a competitive performance.
Slot on Fitness Update: Slot provides a fitness update, noting the team's challenges and the need for players to adjust to the demands of the Premier League and Champions League. He expresses confidence in the team's ability to improve and compete in the upcoming games.