Liverpool Manager Arne Slot Defends Squad Choice After Sixth Consecutive Loss to Crystal Palace

Liverpool manager Arne Slot defended his decision to field a largely inexperienced and youthful team during the 3-0 Carabao Cup loss to Crystal Palace, citing fixture congestion and limited first-team player availability as key factors. He referenced former manager Jurgen Klopp's approach of using the League Cup to give young academy players game time, emphasizing that many senior players were rested due to a packed schedule and injuries. Despite the criticism from fans and the media, Slot maintained that his team selection was justified and stressed the need for immediate improvement given Liverpool's poor form, having lost six of their last seven matches. Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner also defended Liverpool's lineup, calling suggestions of a weakened team disrespectful and highlighting the quality of the young players fielded. Slot acknowledged that squad depth is a significant issue compared to other top clubs, noting that Liverpool’s thin squad forced him to rely heavily on teenagers. He admitted the pressure was mounting but remained resolute that the losses and the current run of form were unacceptable for a club of Liverpool's stature.