Liverpool have experienced consecutive defeats for the first time since the spring.
This situation might feel unfamiliar to Arne Slot, particularly considering the manner of his team’s setback in the UEFA Champions League against Galatasaray this past Tuesday in Istanbul.
However, as the popular saying suggests, when challenges arise, they often multiply. The Reds have encountered an additional setback, as Slot is now expected to grant a Premier League debut to a squad member at Stamford Bridge this weekend.
Arne Slot set to present Premier League debut at Stamford Bridge
The consistency of Slot’s Liverpool squad has been a defining characteristic. The Dutch manager will undoubtedly feel disappointment over the absence of a crucial player during their European campaign, especially considering the robustness of their defensive line since his arrival in the previous summer.
This juncture represents a significant test for Slot in terms of steering the team back on course. The upcoming match against Chelsea on Saturday will require him to introduce a fresh face in the goalkeeping position.
Alisson, the regular goalkeeper who is currently ranked second among the world’s best goalkeepers by FourFourTwo, was taken off during the match against Okan Buruk’s team at Rams Park. According to Slot, he will not participate in the game against the Blues.
This implies that Giorgi Mamardashvili, previously with Valencia, will take his place and make his first Premier League appearance. Liverpool’s head coach confirmed this following the defeat in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday.
“If a player of mine is on the ground, I usually anticipate the worst – meaning they can’t continue,” Slot stated in the post-match press briefing. “It’s never a good sign when someone exits the field in that manner. You can be certain that he won’t be playing on Saturday.”
Considering that Hugo Ekitike and Giovanni Leoni have also been added to the list of injured players, Liverpool might need to rely on players like Federico Chiesa again, who scored at Selhurst Park during the 2-1 loss to Crystal Palace.
“It presents a challenge,” Slot acknowledged, when questioned about whether squad rotation and injuries are significantly impacting Liverpool’s recent struggles. “There could be numerous reasons for an individual’s errant pass or mistake. What you’re observing, and I believe I’ve clarified this multiple times, is that a few of our players didn’t participate in the pre-season, making it impossible to field them in every single match.
“While it’s technically possible, it could elevate the risk of injuries. We’re increasingly witnessing this because the demands are continuously escalating, and to meet these demands, players need adequate preparation. Consequently, while rotation isn’t always my preference, it’s sometimes necessary because a player isn’t prepared to play three 90-minute games in seven or eight days.”
