After losing to the Eagles, Arne Slot remained defiant in his choice to rest several players for Liverpool’s EFL Cup tie
Liverpool’s downward spiral continued at Anfield as Arne Slot’s side crashed out of the EFL Cup with a humbling 3–0 defeat to Crystal Palace.
The result marked yet another setback for the Reds, but Slot remained defiant in the aftermath, insisting his decision to field a youthful and rotated side was deliberate and part of a long-term plan.
Slot stands by his decision amid mounting criticism
Speaking both before and after the match, Slot emphasised that the EFL Cup has always been used by Liverpool as a platform to nurture young talent.
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“People who know this club, who follow this club for a few years know that in this competition we also use this for our younger players,” he explained.
Ismaila Sarr celebrates scoring against Liverpool | Imago
Ismaila Sarr celebrates scoring against Liverpool | Imago
The Dutchman said the aim was to give academy prospects experience in front of 60,000 fans, building a pathway to the first team.
Despite the heavy loss, Slot made it clear that he had no regrets over his choices, saying, “It felt like the right decision and I have not changed that opinion. Because with our starters, we have struggled to get a result against Palace as well,” as he referenced Liverpool’s recent poor record against Oliver Glasner’s well-drilled side.
Injuries and fatigue shaping Liverpool’s season
Slot also pointed to Liverpool’s injury list and congested fixture schedule as factors influencing his selection.
“We only have four or five injuries but if I have to play again the same players, there is a big risk of another injury,” he said, noting that several of his senior stars missed pre-season or were recovering from minor knocks.
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Slot, Liverpool manager || imago
The Liverpool boss admitted fatigue had played a major role in recent results, with his team often forced to play multiple games within short intervals. “To lose that game of football is not a complete surprise if I see the struggles some players had,” Slot admitted.
Still, the Dutchman refused to use those challenges as excuses, insisting his focus remains on regaining rhythm in the league and ensuring Liverpool’s younger players learn from the bruising cup exit.
