Arne Slot has expressed that despite Manchester United's current struggles, they are “much, much better” than their disappointing Premier League standing suggests, ahead of Liverpool's showdown with their bitter rivals this Sunday.
Liverpool is leading the Premier League with a six-point advantage and are favorites to win their 20th top-flight title, which would bring them level with record-holders United. In stark contrast, United find themselves languishing in 14th place, following five defeats in their last six league matches under new manager Ruben Amorim.
However, Slot, who is also in his first season in English football, has insisted he will not underestimate United when they visit Anfield, even when asked about potentially resting players ahead of the match.
“No, of course, I’m not going to rest any players because it’s a big game,” Slot stated during Friday’s press conference. “I’ve said it before the first fixture (a 3-0 win at Old Trafford), and I’ll say it again: they have much better players than their league position shows. It may take some time for Ruben Amorim to get the best out of them, but they will definitely improve. They are far better than their current standing indicates.”
The Dutchman also expressed sympathy for Amorim, who took over at Old Trafford in November after moving from Sporting Lisbon.
“I think every manager can sympathize with another,” Slot said. “We all know the pressure that comes with this job. It’s no different for him than for me, or for any other manager in the Premier League or elsewhere.”
Slot was also asked about the future of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has been linked with a move to Real Madrid ahead of the January transfer window. With Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, and captain Virgil van Dijk all out of contract at the end of the season, they are now eligible to discuss moves with foreign clubs.
Slot reassured fans that Alexander-Arnold is “fully committed” to Liverpool and would be featuring in Sunday’s game. “Hopefully, he continues the form he’s shown in the past half-year,” said Slot. “Everyone saw how excellent his first half of the season was. He’s here; he wants to win here, and he’s fully dedicated.”
