July is set to be a busy month for Liverpool FC as they prepare for the upcoming Premier League season. With new head coach Arne Slot now in charge, the focus will be on getting the squad ready and implementing Slot’s tactical demands. Here are the key dates to look out for in July.
Pre-season starts (July 1-5)
The first wave of players will return for pre-season training in the first week of July. This group will consist of players who were not involved in international tournaments over the summer. The likes of Mohamed Salah, Curtis Jones, and Kostas Tsimikas are expected to report. Fitness testing will be conducted before Slot begins his planned training sessions.
Euros and Copa America conclude (July 14)
Liverpool had 14 players called up to participate in the European Championship and Copa America. The finals for both tournaments will take place on July 14. After the conclusion of these competitions, players will be on holiday for up to three weeks. Those involved in the finals may not return until August 4.
Fly to the US (July 23)
The squad will travel to the United States for a series of friendlies. This will be their first visit to the US since 2019. While some players like Andy Robertson may already be in the US after Scotland’s early exit from the Euros, others will meet the team there.
Real Betis friendly (July 26)
Arne Slot’s first game in charge will be a friendly against La Liga side Real Betis. The match will take place at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh. Liverpool last faced Betis in a competitive fixture in 2005 during the Champions League group stages.
Arsenal friendly (July 31)
A few days later, Liverpool will face Arsenal in another friendly match. The game will be held at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. This will be one of two Premier League meetings this summer, but the focus will primarily be on fitness and implementing Slot’s tactics.
Other key dates to watch out for in July include the return of players who were involved in international tournaments, the launch of the 2024/25 away kit, and potential transfers. As the squad takes shape under Slot’s leadership, decisions will be made regarding loan moves for young players and the overall direction of the club in the post-Jurgen Klopp era. Although the primary focus will be on preparing the team for the upcoming season, fans will undoubtedly be hoping for some exciting first-team additions. It promises to be an eventful month for Liverpool FC.