Liverpool’s summer questions: from manager silence to contract renewals

Liverpool fans are eagerly awaiting updates on various aspects of the club as the new season approaches. One of the burning questions is when they will hear about their new head coach, Arne Slot. The club has remained relatively quiet since the end of the season, but Slot is expected to speak on club channels once the team returns for pre-season in early July. The delay is due to many members of the club’s media department being on holiday and there being no pressing need for an interview at the moment.

Another concern among fans is the contract status of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk. With both players potentially involved in Euro 2024, contract negotiations are unlikely to take place before the end of the tournament. The same goes for Mo Salah, whose contract expires at the end of next season. Fans will have to wait until at least July for any movement on these deals, which expire in 2025.

Alexander-Arnold’s future is also a topic of interest. After playing in midfield for England during Euro 2024, he could return to Liverpool with a desire to play in that position. Whether this is possible will depend on the system Slot chooses to deploy. It remains to be seen whether he will keep Jurgen Klopp’s 4-3-3 formation or switch to a 4-2-3-1. One of Slot’s crucial tasks will be to ensure he meets Alexander-Arnold’s ambitions as a player. The right-back’s contract expiring in 2025 could also play a role in his demands for guarantees on his position.

Fans are also wondering which players could leave the club this summer. Alongside Joel Matip and Thiago, Sepp van den Berg has already expressed his desire to leave permanently. Adrian, the backup goalkeeper, has also declared his intention to leave and is expected to reject a new contract offer. Caoimhin Kelleher, another goalkeeper, could also be on his way out as he aims to become No.1. As much as Liverpool would like to keep him, they could let him leave if they receive a suitable offer. Nat Phillips and Kostas Tsimikas are also expected to leave.

In terms of new signings, Liverpool fans can expect a few additions to the squad under Slot. However, a complete overhaul is unlikely as the club believes in the effectiveness of the current squad. Sporting director Richard Hughes will look for defensive options and recruit attackers, with several right wingers linked to the club. If Kelleher leaves, Liverpool will almost certainly bring in another goalkeeper to act as Alisson’s replacement.

Slot’s arrival gave a lifeline to striker Nunez, who was struggling under Klopp. Slot reportedly sees him as a vital part of his plans, but Nunez will need to perform well at the Copa America to cement his position. A slow start to the season could see him shown the door by Christmas.

Liverpool will have a significant presence in international tournaments this summer. 10 players will take part in Euro 2024, including Alexander-Arnold, Van Dijk and Andy Robertson. Four players will represent Liverpool in the Copa America, including Nunez and Alisson.

Liverpool’s pre-season is set to begin on July 27 when they face Real Betis in Pittsburgh, United States. They will then face Arsenal and Manchester United on August 1 and 4 respectively. There is a possibility of additional matches scheduled as Slot aims to evaluate its players before their first competitive match.

With so much uncertainty and change at Liverpool, fans are eagerly awaiting updates and hoping for a successful season under their new head coach.