Arne Slot Delivers Strong Reaction After Liverpool’s Convincing FA Cup Progression at Anfield
The Dutch manager praised the performances of Dominik Szoboszlai and Mohamed Salah following the 3–0 victory over Brighton.
Liverpool FC has officially punched its ticket to the FA Cup fifth round, following a dominant 3-0 dismantling of Brighton & Hove Albion. While the scoreline at Anfield provided plenty of reason for the Kop to celebrate, manager Arne Slot was more focused on the how rather than the how many.
The goals, provided by Curtis Jones, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Mohamed Salah, were the tangible results of a team that is finally beginning to reflect Slot’s vision of structural intensity and positional fluidity.
Dominik Szoboszlai: The "Leipzig Blueprint"
The standout narrative for Slot remains the staggering evolution of Dominik Szoboszlai. Since his arrival from RB Leipzig, the Hungarian has transformed from a flashy playmaker into a midfield engine with a growing scoring touch.
"Dominik is a great example of the work model at this club," Slot remarked. "We find young talent, give them the platform, and allow them to grow within a high-stakes environment. He isn't just producing goals; he’s producing leadership."
While Slot noted that Szoboszlai is still developing his "vocal" leadership in the locker room, his actions on the pitch—exemplified by his relentless pressing and game-reading—have already made him a cornerstone of the squad’s future.
The "Revised" Mohamed Salah
Even with his name back on the scoresheet, Mohamed Salah is drawing praise for things that don't always show up in the highlight reels. Slot highlighted a "revised" version of the Egyptian King—one that is as committed to high-press recovery as he is to clinical finishing.
- Defensive Commitment: Slot called Salah’s work rate "fundamental" to the team's ability to compete every 72 hours.
- Consistency: After a shaky start to the campaign regarding fitness levels, the squad appears to have found a mental and physical equilibrium that allows individual stars like Salah to truly shine.
Versatility in Adversity: The Curtis Jones Solution
Perhaps the most surprising tactical twist was the sight of Curtis Jones at right-back. With a mounting injury crisis, Slot has had to get creative, and Jones responded with a goal and a performance that suggested he could play anywhere on the pitch if asked.
"Curtis is a very good player, and he knows it," Slot joked. "Unfortunately for him, he’s in a line of the pitch where we have a lot of healthy players. But his willingness to play as a full-back and his impact there tells you everything about this team’s mentality."
The VAR Debate and Endo's Recovery
The night wasn't without its frustrations. Slot admitted a touch of irritation over a disallowed goal but insisted his team must be good enough to "overcome errors and officials." Regarding VAR, Slot remains a traditionalist: "I prefer a restricted use—clear offsides and goal-line technology. But it is the modern game, and we adapt."
Finally, the injury update on Wataru Endo remains a concern. While the Japanese midfielder is set for several weeks on the sidelines following his injury at Sunderland, Slot provided a glimmer of hope, suggesting he could return before the season concludes.
