Over the past two weeks, Arne Slot has been fully engaged in training with his Liverpool squad, taking the time to familiarize himself with the players and assess their abilities. Although several key players are still recovering from their summer international duties, Slot has had the chance to evaluate some of the less prominent members of the team. These training sessions have given him a fresh perspective on players who had previously been overlooked, helping him identify those who might fit into his vision for the squad.
One player who has particularly caught Slot’s attention is Sepp van den Berg, a young defender eager to prove himself under new management. Slot’s attention to detail has allowed him to notice players who may not have been as prominent under the previous regime, giving them a clean slate to showcase their talents. Additionally, Curtis Jones has highlighted the return of Kaide Gordon to first-team training, expressing excitement about the potential contributions the young talent could make to the team.
As Slot narrows down his squad for Liverpool’s upcoming U.S. tour, his player selection preferences are becoming clearer. One notable absence from first-team training is Rhys Williams, whose exclusion suggests his future at the club is uncertain. This change in management could provide players like van den Berg with more playing time at Anfield than they had under Jurgen Klopp. For some, the managerial shift could offer an opportunity to step up, while for others, it may signal an uncertain future.
Players like Fabio Carvalho, who is on the verge of a possible exit, still have a chance to impress Slot and earn a place in the squad. Meanwhile, the established environment under Klopp could indicate the end for certain players, particularly center-backs Nat Phillips and Rhys Williams, both of whom are fondly remembered by Liverpool fans for their key roles during the injury-ridden 2020/21 season. Klopp had previously praised Williams for his exceptional contributions, and Phillips also remains a fan favorite.
However, reports from the Liverpool ECHO suggest that this summer might mark the end of Phillips and Williams’ time at Liverpool. While the club has rejected a bid for Phillips, Williams’ future appears more uncertain. The 23-year-old defender, reportedly absent from first-team training, may need to seek a fresh start elsewhere. As pre-season progresses, Slot’s decisions will provide further clarity on his vision for the club’s future, highlighting players who are ready to step up and fit into his strategy.
For players coming through Liverpool’s academy, there is still an opportunity to prove their worth to the new manager. But for Williams, it seems increasingly likely that his time at Liverpool is coming to an end. At 23, he may face the difficult decision of resetting his career, an outcome that, while challenging, could be necessary to secure the playing time he needs for his development.
Having risen through Liverpool’s ranks, Williams now faces the emotional challenge of leaving a club where he has spent much of his early career. His time has been marked by difficult loan spells at clubs such as Swansea, Blackpool, Aberdeen, and Port Vale – experiences that highlight the importance of finding a stable environment where he can regain the form that earned him 19 appearances for Liverpool’s first team.
As Slot continues his thorough assessment of the squad, the future of players like Williams is becoming clearer. For now, the focus remains on those who can make a strong impression and secure their place under the new management. For others, like Williams, it may be time to explore new opportunities beyond Anfield in order to revive their careers and get the playing time needed to flourish.
