Liverpool suffered a 1-0 defeat to Preston North End in a behind-closed-doors friendly at the AXA Training Centre, marking Arne Slot’s first game in charge. Former Manchester United winger Robbie Brady scored the only goal with an impressive 40-yard lob after intercepting a poor pass from Liverpool.
This friendly served as Slot’s initial opportunity to observe his squad in action ahead of the new season. Mohamed Salah, Dominik Szoboszlai, Harvey Elliott, Curtis Jones, Jarell Quansah, Kostas Tsimikas, and Conor Bradley were among the 25 players who took part. A predominantly young Reds side played in the second half when Preston scored their decisive goal.
The match provided valuable insights for Slot, despite several first-team players being absent due to international duty. Key players such as Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alexis Mac Allister, Virgil van Dijk, Alisson, Cody Gakpo, Ryan Gravenberch, Darwin Nunez, Andrew Robertson, Diogo Jota, Ibrahima Konate, and Luis Diaz are expected to rejoin the squad soon.
Liverpool’s pre-season will continue with a friendly against Real Betis in Pittsburgh on July 26, followed by matches against Arsenal, Manchester United, and Sevilla. Slot will aim to refine his tactics and integrate returning players before the Premier League opener against newly promoted Ipswich.
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