Liverpool supporters had plenty of questions ahead of the Merseyside derby against Everton, particularly over who would start in a largely fit squad.
The lunchtime clash saw the Reds aiming to maintain a perfect start to the Premier League season, while David Moyes was hoping for his first-ever Anfield victory as Everton manager.
Star Players Sit on the Bench
Shockwaves hit early on when Liverpool revealed that more than £250million worth of talent would start the match on the bench.
Alexander Isak, who made his first start against Atletico Madrid in midweek’s Champions League clash, was among them, alongside Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong.
Fans were left scratching their heads as to why these key players weren’t in the starting XI.
Slot Explains Isak’s Absence
Arne Slot spoke to TNT Sports about his reasoning, pointing to match fitness and the busy schedule as key factors.
Isak, who joined Liverpool for £125m over the summer, had been regaining fitness after initially trying to force a move from Newcastle.
Slot explained: “We knew from the start that three games in seven days, with the third one being the most intense, we need players who are ready for that intensity.
Normally, when you don’t pick a player… I wouldn’t be surprised if Alex himself said it was the best choice for him not to start.”
Managing Wirtz and Szoboszlai
Florian Wirtz, the £116m signing from Bayern Leverkusen, also missed out on a start, Slot revealing that the tight fixture schedule influenced his decision.
Dominik Szoboszlai and Hugo Ekitike played in their usual positions, with Slot noting that Szoboszlai is more accustomed to the intensity of the Premier League.
Former Liverpool striker Peter Crouch supported the decision, saying: “It is difficult to adjust to coming to a different league.
Arne Slot may have been going for a bit more steel—I totally get the decision.”
Frimpong’s Return and Selection
Jeremie Frimpong has battled injuries this season, missing wins over Newcastle and Arsenal.
After contributing in midweek against Atletico Madrid, he was back on the bench against Everton, with Conor Bradley starting at right back instead.
Slot emphasized the importance of recovery, explaining that extra rest, including sleep, was a key part of preparing the squad for three games in a week.
The Challenge of Adapting to the Premier League
Wirtz is still finding his feet in England, yet to register a goal or assist in six appearances.
His adaptation process, combined with the intensity of a derby match, contributed to Slot’s cautious approach.
Overall, the Dutch manager’s selections were shaped by fitness management, experience in high-pressure games, and the need to navigate a congested schedule without risking player performance.