Liverpool’s encouraging start to the Premier League season came to an abrupt halt on September 27, 2025, as they suffered a 2–1 defeat to Crystal Palace in matchweek six. The loss not only ended their run of strong performances under new manager Arne Slot but also sparked tension inside the Liverpool camp. Slot, usually measured in his post-match comments, openly vented his frustration at his players, particularly highlighting defensive errors that cost the team dearly.
The turning point came deep into stoppage time when Palace snatched the winning goal in the 97th minute. Slot expressed his disappointment by stating that the goal was “entirely avoidable” and criticised his players for switching off at such a crucial stage of the match. He pointed out that one of his defenders had abandoned his position in a reckless attempt to push forward, leaving Palace striker Eddie Nketiah unmarked and free to strike the decisive blow. For many observers, this public outburst from Slot was a sign of just how seriously he views lapses in concentration.
Although Slot refrained from naming the player, widespread reports in the English press suggest his remarks were directed at right-back Jeremie Frimpong. The Dutchman, signed to bring attacking energy down the flank, has been accused of prioritising offensive runs over defensive discipline. His misjudgment in this game has not only drawn criticism from his manager but also raised questions over his reliability in Liverpool’s backline. The spotlight on Frimpong will only intensify given the Reds’ mounting defensive concerns.
Slot also addressed a wider issue that has plagued Liverpool in recent weeks: their vulnerability from set pieces. A team once praised for its organisation and aerial dominance, Liverpool have now conceded multiple goals from dead-ball situations in successive matches. Against Newcastle, they shipped two goals from set plays, and the trend continued against Palace. Slot admitted this weakness could derail their title ambitions if not urgently corrected, stressing that defensive stability must become a top priority.
The timing of these problems could not be worse for Liverpool. Their upcoming schedule is relentless, with a crucial Champions League clash against Galatasaray on October 1, followed by a high-stakes Premier League encounter with Chelsea just three days later. Slot now faces a difficult decision: whether to persist with Frimpong in the starting lineup, hoping he learns from his mistakes, or to reshuffle his defensive unit to restore balance and confidence. The coming weeks will test both his tactical judgement and his ability to maintain harmony in a squad suddenly under pressure.
