Over the past two weeks, Arne Slot has been fully focused on training with his Liverpool squad, using this time to familiarize himself with the players and assess their abilities. Although several key players are still recovering from international duties over the summer, Slot has had the opportunity to evaluate some of the lesser-known members of the team. These sessions have allowed him to see potential in players who may not have been in the spotlight before, giving them a chance to prove themselves under his leadership.
One player who has particularly impressed Slot is young defender Sepp van den Berg, who is eager to show his potential under the new manager. Slot’s keen attention to detail has allowed him to spot players who were less prominent under the previous regime, giving them a fresh opportunity to make their mark. Curtis Jones has also highlighted the return of Kaide Gordon to first-team training, expressing excitement about what the young talent could contribute to the squad.
As Slot starts to narrow down his squad selections for Liverpool’s upcoming tour of America, his preferences for player choices are becoming clearer. A notable exclusion from first-team training is Rhys Williams, which may signal uncertainty about his future at the club. This could be a turning point for players like van den Berg, who may find themselves with more playing time under Slot than they had under Jurgen Klopp. While some players could seize this opportunity, others may face an uncertain future.
Players such as Fabio Carvalho, who is reportedly close to leaving, still have a final chance to catch Slot’s eye and secure their place in the squad. On the other hand, the familiar environment Klopp built at Liverpool could be coming to an end for certain players, particularly center-backs Nat Phillips and Rhys Williams. Both are well-liked by fans, who recall their key contributions during the injury-riddled 2020/21 season. Klopp had previously praised Williams for his vital role in helping Liverpool finish third that season, and Phillips has a special connection with supporters as well.
However, reports from the Liverpool ECHO suggest that this summer could mark the end of the road for Phillips and Williams at the club. While Phillips has already had a bid rejected, Williams’ future seems even more uncertain, as the 23-year-old defender has reportedly been excluded from first-team training. It appears he may need to seek a new opportunity elsewhere. As pre-season continues, Slot’s decisions will further define his vision for Liverpool’s future, highlighting players who can adapt to his strategy and those who may not fit into his plans.
For players from Liverpool’s academy, there is still time to impress Slot and earn a spot in the squad. However, for Williams, the likelihood of leaving Liverpool seems increasingly probable. At 23, he may face a career reset, which, although difficult, could be necessary for his development and regular playing time.
Having progressed through Liverpool’s youth ranks, Williams now faces the emotional challenge of potentially leaving a club that has been central to his early career. His journey has included tough loan spells at clubs like Swansea, Blackpool, Aberdeen, and Port Vale, highlighting the need for a stable environment where he can rediscover the form that earned him 19 appearances with Liverpool’s first team.
As Slot continues to assess his squad, the future of players like Williams is becoming clearer. The focus now shifts to those who can make a lasting impression and secure their place under the new regime, while others, like Williams, may need to find new opportunities to reignite their careers and gain the playing time they need.
