Arne Slot highlights two Liverpool players as 'struggle' emerges - 'we have to cope'
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Arne Slot Highlights Two Liverpool Players Amid Injury 'Struggle' – 'We Have to Cope'
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has expressed frustration over the impact of injuries on the club's record-breaking summer signings, preventing the team from realizing full value from their massive spending. Despite high expectations to defend their Premier League title, Liverpool sit in eighth place, grappling with disorganized performances and a winless streak in four of their last five league matches.
Slot pinpointed key issues stemming from the trio of high-profile acquisitions—Alexander Isak, Giovanni Leoni, and Jeremie Frimpong—costing nearly £200 million, almost half the club's summer outlay. British record signing Alexander Isak arrived short on match fitness, battled niggles, and now faces at least two months out with a broken leg. Centre-back Giovanni Leoni suffered a season-ending knee injury in his debut appearance, while full-back Jeremie Frimpong has managed only five starts in 11 games due to a recurring hamstring problem. "I think a lot has been said about the amount of money we've spent," Slot remarked. "But unfortunately not all of the money we've spent we have used and that has to do with the injuries of these players."[1]
The injuries have exacerbated deeper squad problems. Liverpool's defense remains vulnerable, with Ibrahima Kon's form collapsing and Virgil van Dijk lacking pace to cover spaces in Slot's system. Midfield protection is inconsistent, leaving the backline exposed. The summer transfer window also faltered by missing a timely deal for Marc Guehi, a commanding center-back to partner Van Dijk.[2]
Amid scrutiny, including public doubts from Mohamed Salah, Slot must adapt. Analysts urge revamping the system to utilize attackers like Isak and Ekitike centrally, while maximizing creativity from Wirtz and Szoboszlai. Reintegrating Salah could prove pivotal as the January window looms. Slot insists the team must "cope" with these struggles to salvage the season.[1][2]
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