Liverpool return to Premier League action with plenty of questions surrounding the squad, but Arne Slot wants fans to hold those thoughts for now.
With a busy run of games coming up, the Dutchman has made it clear he’s thinking only about the next match — and nothing beyond that.
His latest comments have opened a small window into his mindset, but also created a sense of curiosity: why is he so calm when the squad feels stretched?
Slot’s answer might surprise Liverpool fans.
The Reds face Nottingham Forest in a game they must win to keep pace at the top. Yet, while the talk outside Anfield is all about January signings and defensive issues, the manager sees things differently. And he made that very clear in his pre-match press conference.
Slot was asked again about the club’s plans for a center-back in January. His response was measured, almost dismissive — and certainly straightforward.
He said: “There are so many games to play before then and, with the position we are in, it’s the last thing on my mind.”
For a team that has conceded more than they would like, the line raised a few eyebrows. But Slot insists his focus is not on the transfer window. At least not yet.
A Subtle Hint… or Something More?
As the questions continued, Slot again shifted the attention back to the present.
“This is one of the questions I didn’t expect,” he said. “I think there are so many games to play before that. And the position we are in, it is the last thing on my mind. Maybe not on Richard (Hughes)’s, but it is the last thing on my mind.”
He also noted Liverpool have three center-backs available, counting Joe Gomez, with midfielders such as Ryan Gravenberch and Wataru Endo able to fill in if absolutely necessary. But then came the part that caught attention.
He added: “Maybe you are not aware of it yet but we have other positions, at the moment, which is a bit more of an issue.”
That line alone has created a wave of chatter among supporters. If not center-back, then which position worries the manager? And why now?
What Problem Is Slot Not Saying Out Loud?
Slot’s guarded comments have sparked debate, especially given the club’s defensive numbers. Liverpool have conceded 27 goals already this season and have managed only four clean sheets.
Konate’s inconsistent form, Van Dijk’s age, and Gomez’s uncertain future only highlight the thin ice Liverpool seem to be skating on.
Yet Slot stays focused on the pitch. Meanwhile, reports continue to link Liverpool with Antoine Semenyo, while the interest in Marc Guehi remains alive after the failed summer bid.
It almost feels like Liverpool are defending a set-piece — fans can sense something coming, but the club aren’t showing their cards early.
Why Liverpool Need to Sign a Defender in January
Despite Slot’s relaxed tone, the numbers tell their own story.
Liverpool have only three senior center-backs, with Giovanni Leoni out for the season. One injury could force major reshuffling. Konate’s future is still uncertain, and Gomez remains in and out of the first-team picture.
More importantly, Liverpool’s defensive workload has been heavy:
- 331 clearances
- 75 interceptions
- 30 blocks
Liverpool has conceded 17 goals so far in the 2025-26 Premier League campaign (sits 13th in this stats table with only 7 teams conceding more). The Reds have registered only 3 clean sheets so far in 11 games conceding 1.55 goals per game on an average.
These are not just stats — they are signs of pressure. Jamie Carragher and Sky Sports analysts have repeatedly warned that going into the second half of the season with such limited depth is risky. And with the title race tight, one mistake could be costly.
This is why many believe January is not a luxury window — it is a necessity.
What Anfield Home thinks?
Arne Slot is right to focus on the present, especially with tough fixtures ahead. But the concerns about defensive depth are valid. Liverpool don’t need panic buys, but they do need smart decisions.
A new center-back in January could be the difference between staying in the title race or falling short. Slot may not be thinking about it yet, but the club must. It’s not just about fixing today — it’s about protecting tomorrow.