Liverpool’s Pre-Season Kick-Off: Key Observations

As Liverpool embarks on a new era under Arne Slot, the first wave of players returned to pre-season training on Friday. Here are some key observations from day one, offering insight into the early stages of this transition.

Kostas Tsimikas Leads the Way

With Greece not qualifying for Euro 2024, Kostas Tsimikas was the senior-most player to report for duty. The spirited left-back, known for his upbeat personality, wasted no time making his presence felt. Upon arriving at the training base, Tsimikas flashed a peace sign at the cameras, enthusiastically declaring, “We are back!”

Despite Jurgen Klopp’s departure, the camaraderie and team spirit fostered during his tenure appear to remain intact. However, the true test of this cohesion will come when the squad faces challenges during the season.

New Coaching Staff in Action

Arne Slot and Richard Hughes held their first press conference at Liverpool on Friday, marking a significant moment in the club’s new chapter. Observing from the back of the room at the AXA Training Centre were assistant coach Sipke Hulshoff and lead physical performance coach Ruben Peeters. Their presence signals a hands-on approach from the new coaching staff, ensuring they are fully integrated into the team dynamics from the outset.

Also present was Slot’s agent, Rafaela Pimenta, who manages the affairs of the late Mino Raiola’s clientele. This mix of familiar and fresh faces underscores Liverpool’s blend of continuity and change as they gear up for the upcoming season.

Van den Berg and Phillips: Aiming for Opportunities

Sepp van den Berg’s return to training at Liverpool may have surprised some, especially given his recent comments about potentially leaving the club to advance his career. Nevertheless, the Dutch defender is committed to maintaining his fitness and seizing any opportunity to impress Slot.

Similarly, Nat Phillips is also back in training, albeit with less fanfare. Phillips has been linked with a move to Cardiff, and their manager, Erol Bulut, has expressed a desire to sign him permanently. Phillips himself has admitted he would “certainly consider” such a move.

Who’s Back in Training?

At least 16 players were spotted at the training ground, marking the start of their pre-season routines. Alongside Tsimikas, Van den Berg, and Phillips, players such as Stefan Bajcetic, Conor Bradley, Jarell Quansah, Owen Beck, Curtis Jones, Harvey Elliott, Fabio Carvalho, Kaide Gordon, James McConnell, Ben Doak, Tyler Morton, Harvey Davies, and Caoimhin Kelleher were present.

However, not all were actively training. The early days of pre-season are typically reserved for testing and assessments. According to the club, only a few participated in the morning session, including Bajcetic, Bradley, Quansah, and Van den Berg. In the afternoon, Beck, Jones, Kelleher, and Tsimikas joined in. The activities of the remaining players remain unclear, reflecting the varied schedules and regimens typical of early pre-season days.

Absence of Salah and Endo

Mo Salah and Wataru Endo were notably absent from the first day of pre-season. Despite not being called up for international duty at the Paris Olympics, both players were missing. Salah’s social media activity suggests he is still enjoying his holiday in Greece, hinting at a slightly extended break before rejoining his teammates.

With the new season on the horizon, Liverpool’s pre-season training has kicked off under the watchful eyes of the new coaching staff. The return of key players, the absence of some stars, and the blend of continuity and new leadership set the stage for an intriguing period ahead. The real challenges will soon emerge, testing the squad’s resilience and cohesion as they prepare for the competitive season.