Liverpool manager Arne Slot has admitted that “results don’t lie” as he called for greater defensive discipline following a disappointing run of three straight defeats ahead of their Premier League showdown with Manchester United at Anfield on Sunday.
After a flying start to the season winning their first seven matches across all competitions the Reds have since faltered, suffering losses to Crystal Palace, Galatasaray in the Champions League, and Chelsea before the international break. The slump has seen them slip one point behind league leaders Arsenal.
Despite a major summer spending spree of nearly £450 million ($604 million), including club-record deals for Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz, both new signings are still searching for their first Premier League goals. Defensively, Liverpool have also struggled, conceding two or more goals in more than half of their league fixtures so far.
“We’ve played ten, won seven, and lost three and all three defeats were by small margins,” Slot said during Friday’s pre-match press conference. “But results don’t lie. When you lose three in a row, you have to do better. We’re aware of that and need to respond.”
The Dutch coach pointed to a lack of creativity and sharpness up front, as well as defensive lapses during set pieces, as key areas requiring improvement.
“We haven’t created as many chances as we did last season,” he explained. “We’re not getting those special moments from our attacking trio or converting from set pieces. Conceding four goals from dead-ball situations is far too many for a team that wants to compete at the top.”
Mohamed Salah, last season’s driving force behind Liverpool’s title triumph, has also found it difficult to replicate his form amid tactical adjustments and the integration of new players.
Slot confirmed that goalkeeper Alisson Becker remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, but offered some positive news Ryan Gravenberch is available for selection after recovering from a minor knock sustained on international duty with the Netherlands.
As Liverpool prepare to host arch-rivals United, Slot will be hoping his side rediscover their defensive solidity and attacking spark to reignite their title defense.
