Liverpool manager Arne Slot has moved to clarify his recent comments about squad depth, insisting he is “completely happy” with the players at his disposal despite a difficult run of form and growing criticism from supporters.
The Dutchman’s remarks come just days after Liverpool’s shock 3-0 Carabao Cup defeat at home to Crystal Palace — their sixth loss in seven matches across all competitions. Slot’s team selection that night raised eyebrows as he fielded a youthful side, handing starts to three teenagers and naming five more on the bench.
After the defeat, Slot appeared to suggest that his weakened lineup reflected a lack of squad depth, saying his selection “gives a little bit of insight” into the options available to him. The comments quickly sparked debate among fans and pundits, especially as Liverpool have endured an alarming dip in form following a strong start to the season.
However, ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash with Aston Villa at Anfield, Slot softened his stance. “We miss nothing,” he told reporters. “I am completely happy with the team and with all the quality that we have.”
His remarks mark a clear backtrack from his midweek comments, perhaps aimed at easing tension in the dressing room and calming fan concerns after four straight league defeats.
Slot, who guided Liverpool to the Premier League title in his debut campaign last season, has faced mounting scrutiny as his side has slipped to seventh in the table — seven points behind leaders Arsenal. For a team that opened the campaign with seven straight wins across all competitions, the sudden collapse in form has been startling.
Liverpool’s struggles have coincided with injuries to several key players, including goalkeeper Alisson, right-back Jeremie Frimpong, and midfielder Ryan Gravenberch. These absences, Slot admitted, have stretched his squad thinner than expected.
“I am completely convinced by the strategy and the policy that we have,” he said. “But not all of the new signings have had a proper pre-season, and some have been injured. When three or four are out, you’re down to 16 available players. I believe 20 or 21 players is enough — but only if you can keep them fit.”
One such case is record signing Alexander Isak. The striker joined Liverpool on 1 September for a British-record £125 million but missed pre-season after going on strike at Newcastle United to force through the move. As a result, Isak has struggled to find rhythm, contributing just two goals so far.
“Alex is a great example,” Slot said. “A few others missed out on pre-season or had injuries during that period. It’s been harder than last season to keep everyone available. Maybe last year we were more lucky, and this time less so.”
Liverpool’s summer transfer window was one of the most expensive in European football history. The club spent £415 million to rebuild the squad, surpassing Chelsea’s previous £400 million record from 2023. The Reds even attempted to add Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi for £35 million before the deal fell through on deadline day.
Given such heavy investment, expectations have been sky-high — and the recent slump has raised questions about Slot’s tactics, squad management, and player morale. Some supporters have accused the manager of making excuses, while others believe he is suffering from bad luck with injuries.
Still, Slot remains optimistic and confident in his players. “I’m happy with the squad, the strategy, and the quality we have,” he reiterated. “We just need to get everyone fit and available again. The season is long — there’s time to turn it around.”
Liverpool’s home fixture against Villa could prove a defining moment in their campaign. With the pressure mounting and fans demanding a response, Slot will hope his show of faith in his squad is rewarded with a performance that steadies the Reds’ faltering season.
