Liverpool’s summer reshaping under Arne Slot has already seen moments of triumph, difficult decisions, and one transfer that slipped away.
Slot was clear about the satisfaction of securing Alexander Isak in an interview with Sky Sports, praising the work that went into closing the deal.
“The thing that pleases me the most is us getting the deal from Isak over the line,” he said. “Richard, ownership, everyone worked so hard to get that deal done.”
The Liverpool boss underlined that the club’s vision was focused on the long term rather than expecting instant results.
“We’ve to build him up gradually. We have not signed him for next 2 weeks, we have signed him for six years!” Slot explained, signalling that patience will be vital as the striker adapts.
He also stressed that Isak’s workload will be carefully managed early on. “Don’t expect him to be every single game 90 minutes on the pitch,” Slot added, highlighting the need to ease him in gradually.
ALSO READ: Jamie Carragher pins one Liverpool transfer mistake that could backfire
Slot faces difficult omissions and a deal that slipped away
Not everything was straightforward for Slot in his first transfer window. He admitted that leaving Federico Chiesa out of the Champions League squad was one of his hardest calls.
“It was tough for me, it is difficult for him. Of course he wasn’t happy with that decision but he understood the argument,” Slot said.
He added that the Italian winger’s reaction reflected professionalism. “He gave the answer you want to hear from a player and he will be there to help in the other cups and in PL.”
Slot also addressed a deal that failed to materialise, confirming that Liverpool were close to signing Marc Guehi.
“It would be ridiculous if I denied that we were close to signing him,” he admitted, acknowledging the club’s efforts even if the move did not go through.
ALSO READ: Liverpool face major setback as Real Madrid repeat Alexander-Arnold strategy