Arne Slot Reveals his Stance on Trent Alexander-Arnold Ahead of Liverpool’s Final Game | OneFootball

Liverpool’s New Era: Arne Slot Reflects on Title Triumph and Eyes Crystal Palace Finale

As Liverpool prepare to close out a historic Premier League campaign against Crystal Palace, Arne Slot addressed the media with the poise of a man who has already delivered silverware in his debut season. Yet his gaze remains fixed ahead, not behind.

In his final press conference of the 2024-25 season, Slot heaped praise on Mohamed Salah, whose remarkable performances have reignited talk of Ballon d’Or glory. “He’s had very, very, very good seasons at Liverpool but this one probably stands out in terms of numbers,” said Slot. “If there’s ever a chance for him, it would be this season.”

The Egyptian forward has been instrumental in Slot’s title-winning campaign. His drive, form and relentless standards have drawn admiration not just from Anfield but across Europe. While Salah himself views this as his best chance for individual recognition, Slot made clear that the player’s hunger remains insatiable. “He’s proven that he can always raise his game even further,” the head coach noted.

Alexander-Arnold’s Moment of Belonging

As Crystal Palace visit Anfield for what promises to be a jubilant celebration, one key question surrounds the presence of Trent Alexander-Arnold. Slot has yet to make a final decision, but his sentiment is unmistakable. “He definitely deserves to be there,” he said, acknowledging Alexander-Arnold’s long-standing contribution to the club’s modern renaissance.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot reflected on the outpouring of emotion that followed Liverpool’s recent home match against Tottenham, describing it as one of the most powerful experiences of his career. He hopes for a similar send-off against Palace, with Alexander-Arnold front and centre, if fit.

Speaking candidly, Slot emphasised his close relationship with the England international. “I speak to the human being Trent Alexander-Arnold every day,” he explained. It is this human touch – treating players as people, not just professionals – that has underpinned his rapid success at the club.

Premier League Title: The Hardest of All

Asked how he would feel lifting the Premier League trophy, Slot did not shy away from the emotional significance. “Proud, special. But I think proud sums it up the most,” he admitted.

Slot’s appreciation for the magnitude of his achievement was palpable. He underscored the difficulty of sustaining form across 38 matches, especially in an era where competition is more fierce than ever. “There’s never been a season where the number 15 and 16 of the Premier League play in a final against each other in the Europa League,” he remarked, highlighting the league’s depth.

Photo: IMAGO

Sustained Success Hinges on Elite Mentality

While Slot has already delivered what many thought impossible in his first season, his sights are set on building something even greater. “The first day for me to judge if we have a chance to become serial winners is the 8th of July when I see them back,” he said. His challenge now is ensuring that this Liverpool squad does not become a one-hit wonder.

It is a matter of mentality. Slot invoked Salah as an example of what it takes to maintain excellence. “It’s not a coincidence that he’s for seven years already on a certain level,” he said. The question is whether the rest of the squad can match that commitment when the new season dawns.

As Liverpool prepare to host Crystal Palace, the tone is celebratory, but Slot’s focus is already on tomorrow. He has laid the foundation for a new era, one built not only on talent but on togetherness, discipline and emotional intelligence. In doing so, he has quickly reshaped Liverpool in his image – and the Premier League title may only be the beginning.