Slot: We Recognize the Importance of Facing Manchester United, and This is Mohamed Salah's Situation
Friday 01-05-2026
Liverpool coach Arne Slot appeared in a press conference to discuss the match against Manchester United on Sunday, in the 35th round of the English Premier League, at Old Trafford.

Liverpool coach Arne Slot spoke about Mohamed Salah's return: "He always works very hard throughout the season, whether he is fit or injured, to return as quickly as possible. He usually returns faster than other players. His injury is minor, and we expect and need his return in the latter part of the season, but not on Sunday. It is very comforting that his injury is not serious and that he will be able to play with us as well as in the World Cup. If there is a player who deserves a big farewell, it is Mohamed Salah."

He added about Alisson Becker: "He has not trained with us yet, but he is very close to doing so. We will hear today from the medical staff whether he can train. We do not want to take risks, as there is a difference between a field player and a goalkeeper when returning, because field players need to run more."

On the clash with Manchester United: "We recognize that it is a very big match, not only because we are facing Manchester United, but also for qualifying for the Champions League and achieving the best possible position. We wanted to win the league, but that is no longer possible, so we are trying to finish the season in the highest position possible. Winning would be a step in the right direction, a definitely important step and not a setback."

About Manchester United's level: "Last season, their players performed better than their ranking reflected. After a new transfer market, we can now see how strong they are. They may have an advantage because they play once a week, but I said earlier that they are a strong team, and that is what we see now, as they are more stable in results."

On his team's offensive effectiveness: "Isaac's availability helps us more, as he is a high-caliber player. Overall, having more players available gives us greater stability, and not playing three times in seven days also helps us."

He continued: "Converting chances into goals is something we have not done well this season. One of the players we relied on for that [Isaac] was not available much. Last week you saw how he took a chance and scored brilliantly."

He emphasized: "Scoring goals is crucial, and we are happy with Alex's return. It is unfortunate that we will miss Mohamed Salah on Sunday, who has been a great scorer for years. Some players have not scored the number of goals we know they are capable of, but this will return to normal soon."

He concluded about his evaluation as a coach: "It is up to you (the media) to decide if I have been harshly criticized or not. That is not my role. I evaluate my players, if they work hard and execute tactical instructions, I am not here to think if I have been harshly criticized, that is not what I focus on."

Matches
Videos
News
Standings
Transfer
settings