Arne Slot questions Liverpool’s misfortune following Jérémy Jacquet’s injury.
Arne Slot has remarked that Liverpool’s misfortune this season has been so significant that it has even affected new recruit Jérémy Jacquet, who has sustained a shoulder injury prior to his summer transfer to Anfield.
Liverpool finalized a £60 million ($82m) agreement to acquire Jacquet from Rennes on deadline day; however, the centre-back may now need surgery on his shoulder after incurring an injury while competing for the French club over the weekend.
“It certainly feels that way,” Slot stated when questioned about Liverpool’s luck this season.
“Even when we sign a player who isn’t yet playing for us, he gets injured. At times, it feels like that, but once you start believing it’s all bad luck, it likely comes to you as well, so we should try to keep it at bay and concentrate on our performance and what we can do to enhance it.
“However, the frequency with which we have conceded late goals in extra time is considerably higher than usual. The question is whether it is bad luck or if we are at fault?
“I have attempted various strategies. I’ve made defensive substitutions and the ball still went in; I’ve kept the same players on the field and the ball went in. We’ve explored many options. I can honestly say we haven’t been fortunate, that is certainly true.
“The question remains: are we unlucky, or is it a reflection of who we are? That is something we can only determine in the next three to four months.”
Slot also acknowledged that this has been the most challenging season of his career and recognized that failing to secure Champions League qualification this season could influence Liverpool’s summer transfer activities.
“If we do not qualify for Champions League football, it has definitely not been an acceptable season,” he stated.
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“When I came here and only signed Federico Chiesa, it was following a Europa League season. That has a significant impact on how this club operates. I am fully aware of that.”
The Liverpool manager added: “Yes, it’s fair to say [it’s been the most difficult season of his career]. By a considerable margin. Because in all the other seasons I’ve managed, there were only positives. I don’t think I’ve ever lost two matches in a row [before this season]. It’s an exception for me this season, just as it is for the players. The players are not accustomed to losing frequently or having numerous draws. I’m not used to that either.”
