Arne Slot praised Liverpool’s resilience after their 2-1 win over Everton in the Merseyside derby at Anfield.
Goals from Ryan Gravenberch and Hugo Ekitike gave the champions control early on before Idrissa Gueye pulled one back, forcing Liverpool to hold firm under pressure.
Speaking after the game (via Liverpool FC), Slot broke down how his side managed the occasion, highlighted the contributions of key players, and explained how the busy schedule has shaped his decisions.
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Slot reflects on mentality, Gravenberch and Ekitike’s rise
Slot admitted that the derby tested his side differently after a packed week of fixtures.
“We needed mentality today in a different fashion maybe than the few times before,” he said.
“The first 45 minutes, unbelievable, the way we played. But the second half was more difficult because of Everton, of course, but also because we ran a bit out of energy.”
On Ryan Gravenberch, who opened the scoring, Slot praised both sides of his game:
“I think he has taken the spotlight mainly because of the attacking things he does, but I also see how much he runs off the ball, how many times he is there to help out Conor [Bradley] when he is in a two-v-one situation.”
The manager also highlighted how Gravenberch’s role is evolving:
“I wouldn’t say [he has] freedom but he has the moments that he can help the attack – but that has a lot to do with the way the other team presses. He has a bit more freedom.”
On Hugo Ekitike, Slot underlined the value of competition up front:
“Of course [I have been] impressed but we knew what we brought in. Like any other team in this league, every team has two No.9s – you could see this with Everton today as well.”
Slot then explained how squad rotation will remain vital.
“The ones that played three times 90 are Virgil [van Dijk], Ibou [Konate], Mo [Salah], Ryan and Dom [Szoboszlai]… I can tell you now you won’t be seeing them on Tuesday.”
Finally, Slot reflected on game management and the need to stay sharp in key moments.
“We have to understand a moment can change a game, no matter how well you play, no matter what you do. Always fight for these moments.”
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