Slot Backs Player Health Over Summer Tournament
Arne Slot has made it clear that Liverpool's non-involvement in the upcoming FIFA World Club Cup is far from a cause for concern. As the Premier League champions prepare for a well-earned summer break, their manager struck a composed and confident tone, signalling that rest may serve his players better than another international assignment.
Slot, fresh from securing Liverpool's first league title in four years, offered a candid take on the demanding football calendar that awaits his counterparts this summer. Manchester City and Chelsea will fly the English flag at the revamped World Club Cup in the United States from 14 June to 13 July—Liverpool, by contrast, will enjoy a quieter summer.
'In this moment, eight out of ten people who work in this business – maybe even ten out of ten – will feel is it really necessary to have another tournament for these players that already had such a long season,' said Slot.
'I don't think it's healthy for players to only have maybe one week off, then go into the tournament, then have one week off and start the whole Premier League season again. That can never be good for the health of a player.'
Slot's remarks echo a growing unease within the managerial ranks. Pep Guardiola has previously voiced frustration about football's ever-expanding schedule, and Slot is firmly in agreement with the City boss.
'I think that is probably what most of us feel,' he added.
It's a sentiment gaining traction as elite players face increasingly condensed campaigns, often at the expense of recovery and long-term performance. While fans may relish more high-stakes football, coaches and players are increasingly sounding the alarm on the unsustainable nature of current scheduling.
Slot's first week as Premier League champion has been a blend of celebration and simplicity. Having sealed the title with a commanding win over Tottenham last weekend, the Dutchman is taking it all in stride.
'Normal things like shopping for groceries still have to be done,' Slot said with a smile. 'But I go to the shop with a smile on my face!'
The celebratory mood will continue this Sunday, with Chelsea set to honour Liverpool with a guard of honour at Stamford Bridge. But Slot's attention is already shifting toward the future.
Slot was quick to dismiss the idea that Liverpool will repeat last summer's transfer quietude.
'If I felt we couldn't improve as a team, we would have a problem because I know for sure Manchester City and Arsenal will improve,' he explained.
'That improvement will also come by bringing in new players because that's what they did for so many years.
'We may have set the example (by not buying anyone last summer) but I don't think that is going to happen!'
With Liverpool now back at English football's summit, all eyes will be on how they strengthen their squad ahead of a season that includes title defence and Champions League ambitions—but not the World Club Cup.
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