Arne Slot has been getting acquainted with his Liverpool squad after nearly two weeks of training. A significant number of key players remain absent due to their participation in international competitions over the summer. Nonetheless, Slot has had the opportunity to evaluate some of the squad’s fringe players.
One standout during this period has been Sepp van den Berg, while Curtis Jones has lauded the return of Kaide Gordon to first-team training.
As Slot begins to pare down the squad for their upcoming tour to America, his preferences regarding player selection are becoming clearer.
Rhys Williams left out of first-team training
The shift from Jurgen Klopp to Slot could benefit certain players in terms of increased playing time at Anfield. Van den Berg exemplifies this potential, though others could also seize the opportunity.
Despite Fabio Carvalho’s potential departure, he still has a chance to impress Slot and secure a future with the club.
Conversely, the familiar environment of Klopp’s tenure may signal the end for some players on Merseyside, particularly center-backs Nat Phillips and Rhys Williams.
Both players are well-regarded by fans for their contributions during the injury-stricken 2020/21 season. Klopp had previously praised Williams as “exceptional” for helping Liverpool secure a third-place finish, with Phillips also being a fan favorite.
However, according to the Liverpool ECHO, this summer seems to mark the final chapter for both at Liverpool.
Although the club has already turned down a bid for Phillips, Williams’ situation appears more critical. The 23-year-old has reportedly been absent from first-team training during pre-season.
As pre-season continues, Slot’s squad preferences will become more evident. For many, especially those from the academy, there is still time to prove their worth under the new coach. However, for Williams, it seems his chances have dwindled. At 23, a fresh start is necessary.
Williams, who has been with Liverpool since his youth, faces a challenging farewell. His prolonged stay without regular playtime could stymie his career.
Williams has experienced difficult loan spells at Swansea, Blackpool, Aberdeen, and Port Vale, and he needs to find a stable club where he can showcase the form that once earned him 19 appearances for Liverpool.
