Arne Slot to pick strong Liverpool team a year on from Plymouth FA Cup upset

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Liverpool manager Arne Slot has vowed to field a full-strength team in the FA Cup, determined to avoid a repeat of last season’s shock elimination by lower-league opposition Plymouth Argyle. Reflecting on that defeat, Slot accepts he misjudged the balance between rotation and competitiveness, and he is adamant there will be no similar gamble this time.

Slot explains that the Plymouth upset has reshaped his thinking on squad management for domestic cups. Rather than treating early rounds as opportunities primarily for fringe and youth players, he now views them as fixtures that demand the presence of Liverpool’s core leaders and most reliable performers. While he still values giving minutes to emerging talents, he insists this must not come at the expense of control, intensity and experience on the pitch.

The Dutchman underlines that the FA Cup remains a major priority for the club, especially in a season where momentum and confidence are crucial. He notes that a strong run in the competition can reinforce belief within the squad and among supporters, and that Liverpool cannot afford to underestimate any opponent after the lessons of last year.

Slot also points to improvements in squad depth and fitness over the past 12 months as a factor that allows him to select a powerful XI without overloading key players. With more options available in several positions, he can maintain high standards while still managing workloads sensibly across multiple competitions.

Looking ahead to the upcoming tie, Slot makes clear that Liverpool will approach it with the mentality of a top Premier League game: high pressing, strong game management and a determination to impose their quality from the start. A year on from Plymouth, he wants the FA Cup narrative around his Liverpool to be one of seriousness, respect for the competition and a ruthless refusal to repeat past mistakes.