Arne Slot owns up to Trey Nyoni ‘mistake’ – explains brief FA Cup cameo

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has admitted regret over his limited use of young midfielder Trey Nyoni during the Reds' 4-1 FA Cup third-round victory over Barnsley on Monday night at Anfield.[1][2][3]

Unlike last season's shock exit to Plymouth Argyle, Slot fielded a strong starting XI featuring Dominik Szoboszlai and Jeremie Frimpong, who scored the opening goals. Szoboszlai's first-half back-heel error gifted Barnsley a lifeline through Adam Phillips, leaving the score at 2-1 until Florian Wirtz's 84th-minute strike and Hugo Ekitike's late finish secured progression.[3][4]

Slot reflected on his substitutions, noting he introduced Ryan Gravenberch in the 73rd minute to stabilize midfield after Barnsley's goal, rather than Nyoni. The teenager only entered in the 88th minute for a brief cameo, mirroring his minimal minutes in recent Premier League cameos over Christmas.[3]

“Maybe it was my mistake,” Slot confessed, explaining: “I thought, 'Let's bring Ryan in first', and that all had to do with us conceding the 2-1, because usually a game like this should go to three and then maybe more.”[2][3]

The Dutchman acknowledged Nyoni's importance to his plans, as per journalist James Pearce, but prioritized experience amid the tight scoreline. Slot expressed frustration at not building a bigger lead earlier, which could have allowed more opportunities for youngsters like Nyoni in this low-stakes tie.[3][4]

Looking ahead, Nyoni's chances may remain scarce with Liverpool's packed schedule, including high-stakes Premier League and Champions League games. However, a potential top-eight UCL finish could open doors, such as in the league-phase finale against Qarabag post-Marseille.[3]

This approach contrasts Slot's past rotations, emphasizing the FA Cup's value while balancing youth development and results.[5]