Liverpool's Arne Slot manages Isak, Ekitike amid Premier League tensions

Liverpool's recent Carabao Cup victory over Southampton showcased key performances from Federico Chiesa and Alexander Isak, with Chiesa earning man of the match for his significant involvement and work rate, including assisting both goals. Isak scored his first goal for Liverpool, signaling his gradual integration into the team under Arne Slot, who plans to use the League Cup to build his match fitness after a disrupted summer. Hugo Ekitike also scored but was sent off late in the game for removing his shirt during celebration, an action criticized by Slot as "stupid" and attributed partly to the pressure of competition from Isak. Slot emphasized the importance of controlling emotions on the pitch and hinted at heavy squad rotation in upcoming cup fixtures to manage player fatigue, especially with national team duties impacting the squad. Former manager Tim Sherwood suggested Ekitike’s red card reflected the pressure he feels with Isak's rising prominence in the team. Liverpool currently enjoy strong form with six wins in seven matches this season and are preparing carefully for their busy fixture schedule.