Liverpool head coach Arne Slot will face the media on Thursday ahead of his side’s Premier League clash with Newcastle United on Monday. Unsurprisingly, Alexander Isak’s future is set to dominate much of the discussion.
The Swedish striker has refused to play for Newcastle after Liverpool saw a bid rejected earlier this month. On Tuesday, Isak released a statement on Instagram claiming the club had broken promises to him and making clear his desire to leave. Newcastle quickly hit back, denying the claims but admitting a deal could still happen if their £150 million valuation is met and a replacement is signed.
Despite the drama, Slot will want to shift the focus onto football. Newcastle may be without Isak on Monday, but the atmosphere at St. James’ Park is expected to be intense. Liverpool, who began their season with a 4-2 win over Bournemouth, looked sharp going forward but showed defensive vulnerabilities that Newcastle will look to exploit.
The press conference begins at 2:30pm (BST) at the AXA Training Centre, with Paul Gorst and Ian Doyle in attendance to provide updates and reaction.
Key Updates
Jeremie Frimpong Ruled Out
Slot confirmed that Jeremie Frimpong will be sidelined until after the September international break with a hamstring injury. The medical team’s decision to take him off early was described as a “good call,” preventing further damage. On a more positive note, Conor Bradley has returned to training and Joe Gomez is being carefully managed.
Slot on Counter-Attacking Concerns
The Liverpool boss admitted his side were “too open” at times against Bournemouth and need a better balance in transition. With Ryan Gravenberch returning and Alexis Mac Allister back in his natural role, Slot expects improvements, especially with tougher games against Newcastle and Arsenal coming up.
Slot on Newcastle
While much of the spotlight is on Isak, Slot insisted Newcastle remain a strong side regardless. He highlighted the threats of Anthony Gordon, Amad Diallo Elanga, Harvey Barnes, and Jacob Murphy, stressing that the Magpies’ intensity and home support make them a formidable opponent.
Squad and Transfers
Slot played down expectations of a busy end to the transfer window, saying he is “very happy” with the squad. He noted that two players per position is ideal but suggested Liverpool will only move if the “right player, fee, and position” come along. He also praised new signing Leoni, calling him a talented and composed young player who has already impressed in training.
Injury Updates and Player Form
Federico Chiesa looks in better shape compared to last season, with Slot confident he can make a greater impact.
Joe Gomez remains under observation after struggling with consistency in training sessions.
Ryan Gravenberch’s return is seen as a major boost, particularly for defensive transitions.
In summary, Arne Slot avoided making direct comments about Isak or Marc Guehi, sticking to his stance of not discussing players who are not yet Liverpool’s. Still, speculation continues with less than two weeks left in the transfer window.
