Liverpool’s pre-season training sessions have been intense as Arne Slot, the new head coach, has been working on getting his ideas across to the players. With the return of Liverpool’s best-performing internationals, Slot has had to trim down his first-team squad. Eight players, including Amara Nallo and Owen Beck, were absent from training, indicating that they are unlikely to feature in Slot’s short-term plans. Luke Chambers and Lewis Koumas, who were also part of the US tour squad, have already secured loan moves to Wigan and Stoke, respectively.
One notable player who has returned to training is Andy Robertson. After missing Liverpool’s pre-season friendlies in America due to injury, Robertson wasted no time in reasserting himself. In training, he demonstrated his intense nature by putting in a strong tackle on Conor Bradley. Off the pitch, Robertson was back to his old self, laughing and joking with teammates to keep spirits high.
Slot has introduced new rondo rules during training sessions. While rondos are typically associated with flicks and tricks, Slot has prohibited these and changed the rules to encourage a new style of play. In a training video, Joe Gomez was penalized for flicking the ball towards Kostas Tsimikas, with Slot instructing him to “open his body.” This suggests that Liverpool may adopt a more assertive passing style this season, with an emphasis on full-backs being able to receive the ball under pressure and open up the pitch with their first touch.
The AXA Training Centre has undergone some changes over the summer, including the introduction of a cafe area known as the “coffee bar.” Previously used as a reception area, the cafe provides a relaxed environment for the players outside of training sessions.
Off the pitch, the players had some fun with the social media team, participating in an Olympic-themed activity. They were asked to pick an Olympic sport and name the Liverpool player who would excel in that sport. Highlights included Van Dijk naming Tsimikas as Liverpool’s best BMX rider and Alexis Mac Allister naming Darwin Nunez as the best skateboarder. Mo Salah was deemed the best at racquet sports. Additionally, Liverpool supporter Katarina Johnson-Thompson won a silver medal in the women’s heptathlon, earning congratulations from the team.
Overall, Liverpool’s training sessions have been focused and intense as Slot works on implementing his ideas. With key players back from holiday and the squad in good health, the team is preparing physically and tactically for the upcoming season. The introduction of new rondo rules, the addition of a coffee bar at the training center, and the players’ involvement in Olympic-themed activities all contribute to a dynamic and engaging pre-season for Liverpool.