Arne Slot addresses the media regarding squad availability as the Premier League champions prepare for a decisive clash against Manchester United
Arne Slot took to the press conference on Friday to offer an update on a number of his Liverpool stars ahead of the derby against Manchester United.
The anticipation surrounding Sunday’s showdown between the Red Devils and Liverpool has reached a fever pitch, with both sides desperate to secure their standing in the race for Champions League qualification.
Old Trafford will provide the backdrop for a fixture that could ultimately define the success of the 2025/26 campaign for the Merseyside giants.
However, the atmosphere at the AXA Training Centre has been tempered by growing concerns over the physical condition of several key first-team players.
Arne Slot provides Mohamed Salah injury update
The Dutch coach confirmed on Friday that Mohamed Salah is ruled out for the trip to Manchester.
The absence of Salah is a particular blow for the Reds, especially after the Egyptian was withdrawn early during last weekend’s 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace.
While initial fears suggested a long-term layoff, the club’s assessment on Wednesday April 29 indicated a minor issue, though Sunday comes too soon for the 33-year-old. Slot remained optimistic about a return before the season’s end.
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“As we know from Mo, he’s always working incredibly hard when he’s fit and when he’s injured to be back as soon as possible,” he said.
“That’s what he’s trying now, usually he’s back fitter than normal players from a minor injury, indeed he has a minor injury, we expect him back for the end of the season but not Sunday.”
Goalkeeping crisis complicates Slot’s tactical preparations
The defensive stability of the side has also been compromised by the continued absence of Alisson Becker, who has now missed six consecutive fixtures following a recurring injury setback.
With Giorgi Mamardashvili sidelined by a gash sustained on April 19, third-choice keeper Freddie Woodman could start again between the posts if Alisson misses out.
“Ali hasn’t trained yet, very close to training with us, I have to hear from the medical staff if he’s able to train today, tomorrow or at the start of next week, we’re very close but don’t want to take any risks,” Slot added. “There’s a difference between a keeper and a player, they need to run more.”
Meanwhile, Slot revealed that Milos Kerkez should be back in training ahead of Sunday’s clash despite some fitness issues he faced this week.
“Milos has had some niggles, and left the training pitch on Wednesday. I expect him to train today or tomorrow,” Slot noted.
