Reporter: “You’ve had an incredible start to the season—16 games, 14 wins, one draw, and just one loss, including a big win over the Bundesliga champions. Are you surprised at how well things are going for you and Liverpool so far?”
Arne Slot: “Surprised might not be the right word. I’ve always believed in the quality of our team. It’s one thing to have talent, but consistency is what really counts. From day one, I saw how much energy the players put in every day, which is why we’ve been able to maintain this level. Of course, a bit of luck has helped in a few close calls, but overall, it’s down to the hard work and dedication these players show day in, day out.”
Reporter: “After Villa and Southampton, the upcoming period looks challenging—you’ve got games against Real Madrid, Man City, and the Merseyside Derby. How do you handle expectations, especially after such a strong start?”
Arne Slot: “I’m not focused on managing expectations with the squad in terms of results. Our goal is simple: to put in maximum effort daily. For the past few months, they’ve done just that. I’m not demanding wins, just the same level of dedication. Players focus on each game as it comes, and that’s what we’ll continue to do.”
Reporter: “Curtis Jones has shown incredible improvement, and Luis Diaz has been on a different level too. How are you working with them individually?”
Arne Slot: “Curtis became a father recently, which might have something to do with his resurgence, though I can’t take credit for that! Since then, his performances have been outstanding. Overall, I think it’s also the way the team functions together that boosts individual performances. It’s like parenthood made him even better.”
Reporter: “Liverpool fans are thrilled with the team’s start. Do you ask them to keep grounded, or are you happy for them to dream big?”
Arne Slot: “It’s good for fans to feel excited, especially if it creates atmospheres like we saw against Brighton and Luton. That kind of energy helps us immensely. As for the squad, we’re focused on our work inside the training ground, not the outside noise. This club’s been in this position before, so the players understand what’s required.”
Reporter: “Lee Carsley recently called Curtis Jones one of the most talented players he’s worked with. How far would you go with that, and what makes Curtis special?”
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Arne Slot: “Curtis has a lot of confidence with the ball—sometimes even too much, if I’m honest. But that confidence, combined with his work ethic, makes him unique. He’s improved defensively too, like his performance against Cole Palmer. For him, it’s now about consistency, performing at the same high level every few days. That’s the challenge for any player aiming to reach the top.”
Reporter: “Andy Robertson has been Liverpool’s first-choice left-back for years, but you’ve started Kostas Tsimikas recently. How do you see the gap between them?”
Arne Slot: “If you look at my lineups, I think it’s clear I trust both of them. We play so many games that it’s essential to rotate. Fullbacks, especially, put in a lot of physical effort. Center-backs, who don’t run as much, tend to play more consistently. Both Andy and Kostas have unique strengths, and they’ll continue to get their share of starts based on the needs of each game.”
Reporter: “Speaking of contracts, Mo Salah’s future is always a hot topic. Do you have a role in contract talks, and would you like him to stay beyond next summer?”
Arne Slot: “As head coach, I do have input on contract decisions, although there are others more directly responsible. But I won’t be discussing it here; that’s a private matter for discussions within the club. It’s up to us to focus on supporting Mo and the team on the pitch.”
Reporter: “You’ve experimented with various options for the central striker position. What’s your thought process in choosing who plays up front?”
Arne Slot: “A lot depends on who’s available. When Darwin and Diogo are both fit, we typically play one of them up top. When we’re short-handed, we’ve tried new approaches, like using Luis Díaz, and he’s done surprisingly well. But when everyone’s available, it’s good to have options. Every player brings something different, and it’s about picking the right tool for the job.”
Reporter: “On that note, any update on Diogo Jota’s return from injury?”
Arne Slot: “Yes, we expect him back shortly after the international break—one or two weeks after. He’s progressing well, so it’s just a matter of giving him the time he needs.”
Reporter: “Aston Villa has a deep squad and can adapt in many ways. How do you prepare for the variety they bring?”
Arne Slot: “Unai Emery has a well-established style, and Villa typically sticks to a 4-4-2. Of course, different players bring different characteristics, but their overall approach remains consistent. We’ve seen how opponents occasionally adjust their tactics against us, but I don’t expect major changes from Emery. It’s more about focusing on what we can control.”
Reporter: “Luis Díaz’s goal conversion has improved drastically this season—from 9% last year to 29%. Have you been working with him on finishing?”
Arne Slot: “I don’t know if it’s any specific training; he’s just getting in great positions thanks to the team’s support. Our system has been creating more opportunities for everyone—whether it’s Luis, Darwin, or Diogo. They’re all talented finishers, and with the service they’re receiving, it’s no surprise they’re scoring more. It’s a team effort, really.”
Reporter: “Thank you, Arne, for your time and insights. Best of luck with the upcoming fixtures.”
Arne Slot: “Thank you. We’ll give it our best.”