Although no major outlet has confirmed earlier speculation of Harvey Elliott storming out during training, ongoing reports suggest underlying friction among Liverpool’s fringe players. This unrest surfaces as the club readies itself for the 2025/26 Premier League and Champions League campaigns following their title-winning 2024/25 season.
Manager Arne Slot’s training style—characterized by its tactical intensity and frequent double sessions—focuses heavily on possession, pressing, and precise positioning. Conor Bradley remarked on the rigorous structure, noting daily tactical meetings to align with Slot’s expectations. Jarell Quansah, prior to his move to Bayer Leverkusen, echoed similar sentiments about the exhaustive tactical demands.
Top players like Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Ryan Gravenberch have adapted well to Slot’s structured 4-2-4 and pressing game. Salah, in particular, recorded an impressive 32 goals and 23 assists last season, while Gravenberch was a constant presence in the midfield.
Yet, some squad members are reportedly struggling with the mental and physical demands—especially those with limited game time. Harvey Elliott, sidelined for three months due to injury and edged out by new signing Florian Wirtz, started only two league matches last season. Social media posts and prior reports hint at his frustration, with interest from Newcastle and West Ham, though no formal bids have emerged.
Others like Wataru Endo and Federico Chiesa, who also had few starts, are said to be overwhelmed by Slot’s meticulous and often blunt approach. His critique of Salah’s warm-up routine is cited as an example of his relentless standards.
The contrast between Slot’s calculated, possession-heavy system and Jürgen Klopp’s more emotionally charged, counter-pressing style has further contributed to the adjustment issues. Slot’s method demands intense mental focus, including mastering tactical nuances and positioning—something younger and fringe players reportedly find draining.
A source told the Liverpool Echo that not all players have embraced the relentless tactical discussions, especially those competing with established names like Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister. Additionally, the emotional impact of Diogo Jota’s tragic death in July 2025 continues to affect squad morale, despite occasional lighthearted moments like Van Dijk’s interaction with Joe Gomez in training.
Despite internal friction, Slot’s methods have proven effective. By November 2024, Liverpool had won 15 of 17 matches across competitions, securing the Premier League crown. Big-money signings such as Wirtz (£116M), Frimpong (£29.5M), Kerkez (£40M), and Ekitike (£79M) have strengthened the team, though the club now faces non-homegrown player limits that may force outgoing transfers.
Elliott’s potential departure, alongside speculation about Darwin Núñez leaving for Napoli or Al-Hilal, could ease squad and financial pressures. However, it risks weakening the squad’s depth. John Aldridge previously urged the club to keep Núñez and Luis Díaz, warning against losing key talent. Still, Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak indicates Slot’s focus on elite reinforcements.
The squad’s varied reaction to Slot’s intensity highlights a period of transition—some players have risen to the challenge, while others continue to struggle with limited roles. As Liverpool prepare to face Tottenham in their season opener, Slot’s ability to balance these dynamics and integrate new signings will be vital in defending the title.
