Liverpool supporters are eagerly awaiting updates on various aspects of the club as they head into the new season. One of the burning questions is when they will hear from their new head coach, Arne Slot. The club has been relatively silent since the end of the season, but it is expected that Slot will speak on the club’s channels once the team returns for pre-season in early July. This delay is due to many members of the club’s media department being on holiday, and there is no urgent need for an interview at the moment.
Another concern for fans is the status of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk’s contracts. With both players potentially involved in Euro 2024, it is unlikely that contract negotiations will take place until after the tournament. The same goes for Mo Salah, whose contract expires at the end of next season. Fans will have to wait until at least July for any movement on these deals, which expire in 2025.
The future of Alexander-Arnold is also a topic of interest. After playing in midfield for England during Euro 2024, he may return to Liverpool with a desire to play in that position. Whether this is possible will depend on the system Slot chooses to deploy. It remains to be seen whether he will stick with Jurgen Klopp’s 4-3-3 formation or switch to a 4-2-3-1. One of Slot’s crucial tasks will be to ensure he satisfies Alexander-Arnold’s ambitions as a player. The right-back’s contract expiring in 2025 may also play a role in his demands for assurances about his position.
Supporters are also wondering which players may leave the club this summer. Alongside Joel Matip and Thiago, Sepp van den Berg has already expressed his desire to move on permanently. Adrian, the backup goalkeeper, has also stated his intention to leave and is expected to reject a new contract offer. Caoimhin Kelleher, another goalkeeper, could also be on his way out as he aims to become a No. 1. While Liverpool would like to keep him, they may let him leave if they receive a suitable offer. Nat Phillips and Kostas Tsimikas are also expected to depart.
In terms of new signings, Liverpool fans can expect a few additions to the squad under Slot. However, a complete overhaul is unlikely as the club believes in the effectiveness of the current squad. Sporting director Richard Hughes will be looking for defensive options and scouting attackers, with several right wingers linked to the club. If Kelleher does leave, Liverpool will almost certainly bring in another goalkeeper to serve as Alisson’s backup.
The arrival of Slot has given a lifeline to forward Nunez, who was struggling under Klopp. Slot reportedly sees him as a critical part of his plans, but Nunez will need to perform well at the Copa America to solidify his position. A slow start to the season could see him shown the door by Christmas.
Liverpool will have a significant presence in international tournaments this summer. 10 players will participate in Euro 2024, including Alexander-Arnold, Van Dijk, and Andy Robertson. Four players will represent Liverpool in the Copa America, including Nunez and Alisson.
Pre-season for Liverpool is scheduled to start on July 27 when they play Real Betis in Pittsburgh, USA. They will then face Arsenal and Manchester United on August 1 and August 4, respectively. There is a possibility of additional scheduled matches as Slot aims to assess his players before their first competitive game.
With so many uncertainties and changes at Liverpool, supporters are eagerly awaiting updates and hoping for a successful season under their new head coach.