Written by Priya Kaur
The first official Premier League game under the Arne Slot era is upon us and excitement among Liverpool fans is palpable!
It looks like Slot is truly getting a taste of Liverpool life as the Reds are travelling to Portman Road where they will face Ipswich Town for yet another infamous 12:30 kick-off!
The Dutch manager has been nothing short of exceptional during pre-season and his fresh, innovative style has shone through.
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His sessions have been highly intense and focused with a strong emphasis on fitness and tactical skills. The squad’s cohesion alongside Slot’s ability to adapt his tactics to different opponents has already been put to the test with great success.
This was proven with an almost perfect record during pre-season fixtures with wins against Real Betis, Arsenal, rivals Manchester United Sevilla and an almost expected draw against Las Palmas.
The opening match will be Liverpool’s first trip to Portman Road since a 6-0 win there in 2002. Abel Xavier, Emile Heskey, Sami Hyypia and Michael Owen were on the scoresheet, making this a historic match for the Reds.
It was a dominant display by Liverpool showcasing multiple clinical finishes and attacking depth. It’s safe to say I speak on behalf of all the Reds reading this that I hope history repeats itself!
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During his press conference, Slot addressed the speculation surrounding the dry transfer window and put a few minds at rest when he said that he has ‘quite a good idea’ who is front of the pecking order when it comes to Liverpool’s number 6 role.
Amidst the uncertainty, the squad looked fit, sharp, and ready to hit the ground running. The boys are rejuvenated with energy and enthusiasm, suggesting that they are raring to go and ready to make a big statement this season!
Predicted Liverpool Lineup:
Alisson; Trent Alexander Arnold, Jarell Quansah, Virgil Van Dijk, Andy Robertson; Alexis Macallister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch; Luis Diaz, Diogo Jota, Mo Salah.
With Andy Robertson potentially fit to start, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him on the team sheet, although we cannot rule out Tsimikas given how crucial he has been under the new boss. Given this was the team to start against Sevilla, a largely unchanged lineup should be expected, although appearances for the likes of Darwin Nunez, Curtis Jones and Cody Gakpo can’t be ruled out.
