Arne Slot warns of defensive fragility after Liverpool’s Community Shield defeat

Coach acknowledges attacking improvements but insists balance is key ahead of Premier League opener

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has voiced concerns over his side’s defensive performance following their penalty shootout defeat to Crystal Palace in the FA Community Shield final. Despite praising the team’s attacking progress during preseason, the Dutch coach admitted that conceding too many goals remains a pressing issue.

The Reds scored 20 goals in six friendlies but shipped eight in their last four matches, a statistic Slot believes could undermine their Premier League title ambitions if not addressed. “We may need some defensive adjustments right now, because we’re not conceding many chances, but we’re conceding goals,” he said.

This summer, Liverpool strengthened with the signings of Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez, aiming to raise the squad’s technical level. However, the departure of key players has required tactical reshuffles and forced the manager to accelerate the integration of his new arrivals.

Slot highlighted that last season’s success was built on a solid defense and narrow victories, stressing the importance of restoring that balance. “The foundation of our game system is solid,” he added. “The goal now is to tighten our compactness and reduce the space we concede, without losing attacking aggression.”

Liverpool begin their Premier League campaign on Friday, August 15, at Anfield against Bournemouth. Slot hopes the adjustments made in training this week will translate into a more balanced and resilient performance as the Reds look to start the season with confidence.