Ahead of Friday’s Premier League opener, Liverpool coach Arne Slot talks about defensive problems, Florian Wirtz’s “greatest strength” — and reveals the next new signing.
Florian Wirtz is only 22 years old, but for his new coach, that number doesn’t mean much. “In fact, we can see him as a young player, but I don’t see him that way,” said Arne Slot when he held his first Premier League press conference for the 2025/26 season on Thursday and was naturally asked about the most expensive signing in league history.
Wirtz has won the Bundesliga and the cup, is a German international and is therefore “experienced,” explained Slot. He just needs to get used to the Premier League and football in Liverpool. Slot is trying to make it clear to Wirtz in videos and on the training ground “what we want,” although his performances in friendly matches and in the Community Shield suggest that the former Leverkusen player is a quick learner. “It was better than expected, and we already have high expectations,” Slot emphasized.
What particularly impresses the Dutchman is “his mentality is his greatest strength. And that means a lot, because when you see him play, you think, ‘Are you serious?’ Because he’s so creative. He doesn’t let himself be distracted in any way by the transfer fee or anything else. Good players always find a way to play well in good teams. And he’s a good player and plays in a good team.”
However, this team is set to get even better. The summer revealed a few areas for improvement, particularly in defense. A new balance still needs to be found, not least because of free spirit Wirtz, as well as coordination on the wings, where the fast-sprinting Milos Kerkez (left) and Jeremie Frimpong (right) are new additions.
Slot confirms agreement with Leoni
In Liverpool, Slot knows that “10 out of 10” is required, i.e. the top level. We’re doing well, but ‘well’ won’t be enough. We need to take a step forward in some areas.“ Players were repeatedly missing during the preseason, ”but that’s no excuse for Friday“ when the Premier League season kicks off with Liverpool’s home game against Bournemouth – without Ryan Gravenberch, who is suspended. ”We will be 100 percent ready on Friday,” promised the championship-winning coach.
How fitting that the Reds are set to strengthen their defense in the transfer market. They are pursuing Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi and have already secured another transfer: 18-year-old center back Giovanni Leoni is coming from Parma Calcio for a reported fee of over €30 million. “Both clubs have agreed,” Slot revealed, “but he hasn’t signed yet.”
