Liverpool’s Arne Slot Avoids Isak Talk Before Newcastle Clash

Liverpool manager Arne Slot sidestepped questions regarding striker Alexander Isak during a press conference on Thursday, ahead of the match against Newcastle United at St James’ Park. With the transfer window closing on September 1, 2023, Isak is expected to miss the upcoming game, following a reported £110 million (approximately $148.34 million) bid from Liverpool earlier this month.

Isak, who is under contract with Newcastle until 2028, has publicly expressed his frustration with the club, suggesting they have broken promises. In a social media post on Tuesday, he indicated his desire to leave. Newcastle officials responded by clarifying that there was no commitment to sell the 25-year-old forward. Slot commented on Isak’s situation, stating, “What I can tell you is not a lot. It would be much nicer to talk about the players that we have.”

While Slot did not anticipate significant activity in the transfer market as the deadline approaches, he acknowledged the ongoing speculation regarding potential signings, including Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace. “I don’t think so because then I would be unhappy with the squad we have, and I am very, very happy with the squad we have,” he stated. Slot emphasized the importance of maintaining a manageable squad size, saying, “Two per position is ideal but I prefer less than more because you have to disappoint so many players every single time.”

Team Updates Ahead of Newcastle Match

Liverpool will welcome back midfielder Ryan Gravenberch, who missed the Community Shield loss to Crystal Palace after the birth of his first child. He also sat out the season-opening victory against Bournemouth due to a suspension. “I think he can make a lot of difference,” Slot remarked, highlighting Gravenberch’s potential impact on the match against Newcastle.

Slot also expressed optimism for Federico Chiesa, who netted a crucial goal in the recent match against Bournemouth. “I see a totally different Federico now than for large parts of last season,” he noted, attributing Chiesa’s improved form to his recovery from an injury that sidelined him during pre-season.

In contrast, Jeremie Frimpong will miss the upcoming fixture due to a hamstring injury sustained during his Premier League debut. Slot defended his decision to substitute Frimpong, stating, “I think I got criticised for taking him off, didn’t I? It had nothing to do with how he played. It was a good call to take him off.”

As the match against Newcastle approaches, Slot remains focused on his current squad, eager to build on their early season success. Liverpool aims to secure a strong performance against a challenging opponent while navigating the complexities of the transfer market.