In the past two weeks, Arne Slot has been deeply engaged in training with his Liverpool squad, focusing on getting to know his players and assessing their abilities. Despite several key players still recovering from international commitments over the summer, Slot has had the chance to evaluate some of the less prominent members of the team. These training sessions have allowed him to spot potential in players who might have been overlooked previously.
One player who has caught Slot’s eye is young defender Sepp van den Berg, eager to demonstrate his potential under new leadership. Slot’s attention to detail has enabled him to identify players who might not have been as visible during the previous management, offering them a fresh opportunity to prove themselves. Curtis Jones has also noted the return of Kaide Gordon to first-team training, expressing excitement about the young talent’s potential contributions.
As Slot prepares for Liverpool’s upcoming tour of America, his player preferences are starting to take shape. However, Rhys Williams has notably been excluded from first-team training, suggesting uncertainty about his future with the club. This transition period could present more opportunities for players like van den Berg, who might receive increased playing time under Slot compared to Jurgen Klopp’s regime.
Meanwhile, players like Fabio Carvalho, despite being close to a possible exit, have one last chance to impress Slot and secure their places in the squad. Conversely, the established environment under Klopp might indicate an uncertain future for others, particularly center-backs Nat Phillips and Rhys Williams, both of whom are well-regarded by fans for their contributions during the injury-plagued 2020/21 season.
However, reports from the Liverpool ECHO suggest this summer might mark the end for Phillips and Williams at Liverpool. While the club has rejected a bid for Phillips, Williams appears more vulnerable, having reportedly missed first-team training. At 23, he may need a fresh start to regain regular playing time essential for his development.
Williams has progressed through Liverpool’s ranks and now faces the emotional challenge of potentially leaving a club where he has spent much of his early career. His journey has included difficult loan spells at Swansea, Blackpool, Aberdeen, and Port Vale, emphasizing the need for a stable environment to rediscover the form that earned him 19 appearances for Liverpool’s first team.
As Slot continues his assessment, the futures of players like Williams become clearer. The focus remains on those who can make a strong impression and secure their spots under the new regime, while others may need to explore new opportunities beyond Anfield to revitalize their careers and achieve the playing time they need to succeed.
