Liverpool’s Dutch manager, Arne Slot, has offered insight into Mohamed Salah’s uncharacteristically sluggish start to the season, attributing the Reds’ struggle to net goals in open play as a broader issue facing the team. The Egyptian maestro, who bagged 29 goals and 18 assists in the Premier League last term, is finding life difficult this time around, which prompted Slot to start him on the bench against Galatasaray in midweek’s Champions League fixture.
Slot explained that, since the dawn of 2025, opposition teams have adopted more defensively-astute strategies when lining up against Liverpool. He observed, “At the close of last season, Mo scored 12 goals, but only half came from open play. Teams are setting up differently against us now, as seen when Manchester United chose a more route-one style at Anfield compared to their previous encounters.”
Highlighting the collective issue rather than singling out Salah, Slot continued, “We’re not finding the back of the net as frequently from open play, and that’s a challenge we’re working hard to remedy. It’s not just about Mo; other players like Florian [Wirtz] and Cody [Gakpo] are also facing this.”
As Liverpool prepare to tackle Stamford Bridge on Saturday against Chelsea, they do so off the back of consecutive defeats to Crystal Palace and Galatasaray. Adding to Slot’s woes is the form dip of defender Ibrahima Konate, who has faced intense scrutiny for his recent performances.
On the injury front, Slot confirmed goalkeeper Alisson’s absence, speculating on a return post-international break, while Giorgi Mamardashvili is set to continue between the sticks. Slot praised Mamardashvili’s adjustment, stating, “He’s shown his quality against Southampton. We’ve brought in a top-notch goalkeeper.”
The Reds are determined to overcome these early-season teething problems and get back on track as they aim to defend their Premier League crown.
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