“Too much of a risk” – Arne Slot explains Liverpool decision that sparked debate
Liverpool’s opening away fixture of 2026 arrives with the same underlying questions still present, even if the league table continues to show the Reds firmly in contention.
This afternoon’s trip to Craven Cottage comes with growing emphasis on squad management, not just results, as a defining feature of the campaign. Arne Slot shed light on that delicate balance while delivering his Fulham team news, speaking via Liverpoolfc.com.
Joe Gomez is closing in on a return after missing three games with a muscle issue, though Wataru Endo remains unavailable due to an ankle injury.
“I expect Joe to train with us [on Friday] and Wata not yet,” the head coach confirmed.
Mohamed Salah is away on Africa Cup of Nations duty, while Alexander Isak and Giovanni Leoni continue to be sidelined long term. Slot also addressed the substitution of Florian Wirtz in the goalless draw against Leeds United, a call that divided opinion among supporters.
“Two days after the [Wolves] game he still felt it too much in his hamstring,” the 47-year-old explained. “That’s why he couldn’t train and only trained [on Wednesday].”
With a heavy schedule already in the legs, the Premier League winner stressed that keeping players fit is the overriding concern.
“With all the games coming up, for me it was too much of a risk,” Slot said.
He referenced the lack of experience among the substitutes and the need to safeguard players who have endured “six or seven months of non-stop football.” Cody Gakpo’s introduction was presented as part of that broader strategy, not a judgment on Wirtz’s display.
Slot also highlighted positives from the Leeds stalemate, pointing to the clean sheet and the fact Ibrahima Konaté avoided suspension. While the draw extended Liverpool’s unbeaten run, it also reignited debate over attacking fluidity in Salah’s absence.
Former Reds Michael Owen and Steve McManaman both centred their analysis on that missing presence, suggesting the team’s structure suffers without the No.11.
“There’s no structure when he’s not there,” McManaman said, adding that “everybody just played anywhere.”
These squad considerations arrive amid continued uncertainty over Harvey Elliott’s situation, with efforts to bring him back to Anfield reportedly being firmly and puzzlingly blocked.
Taken together, the picture is clear. Liverpool remain tough, competitive and hard to overcome.
Yet as another gruelling period looms, Slot’s comments reinforce one key message.
Careful risk management could be just as vital as maintaining momentum.