Liverpool enjoyed a successful pre-season tour of the United States, winning all three of their matches on the other side of the Atlantic.
The Reds were able to marry minutes in the tank with a string of fine performances and results, and though in the grand scheme of their season that may mean little, it has generated a feeling of optimism ahead of the new campaign – victories against the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United are always sweet no matter the circumstance.
Here are our key takeaways from Liverpool’s tour of the USA.
Slot has work to do / Justin Berl/GettyImages
Whoever replaced Jurgen Klopp at Anfield this summer had a mighty task on their hand. How do you replace the man who brought everything to Liverpool?Well, Arne Slot has set about trying to differentiate himself from the German through his playing style to this point. No longer are the Reds arrowing into direct attacks at the first possible opportunity, long gone with the rock-and-roll football which defined the last decade.Instead, Liverpool are trying to dominate the ball and build from the back. “Kill them with passes,” was the line Slot himself came up with.It’s a new Liverpool. Get used to it.
2. The time is now for Harvey Elliott
Elliott has stepped up in pre-season / Clive Brunskill/GettyImages
Liverpool supporters have gleefully awaited for the true arrival of Harvey Elliott as a Premier League star for several years now, and if this pre-season is anything to go by, he’s ready to take that mantle on.The 21-year-old was perhaps the big winner of the summer tour, succeeding in a variety of roles and showcasing his vast array of talents and tactical flexibility to new boss Slot.Whatever system Liverpool play this season, it’s hard to imagine Elliott won’t be playing a key role.
3. A lifeline for Fabio Carvalho
Carvalho has returned to Liverpool / PETER ZAY/GettyImages
After two loan spells away from Liverpool during the 2023/24 season, Fabio Carvalho’s Anfield career seemed to be on the ropes.Though there was transfer interest in the former Fulham star, he went on tour and took that opportunity with both hands, scoring in wins against Arsenal and United.Southampton have had a £15m for Carvalho rejected in recent days and may yet return with another bid. At worst, he’s increased his own transfer value, and at best may have worked his way into Slot’s long-term thinking.
4. The best is yet to come
Liverpool’s key players are back in training / Visionhaus/GettyImages
So far, Slot has got a tune out of a core group of players, but some of his biggest stars are yet to play a single minute under his management.Club skipper Virgil van Dijk, vice-captain Trent Alexander-Arnold and Euro 2024 star Cody Gakpo have resumed training after their summer exploits and are available for selection again. And Liverpool haven’t spent a penny in this transfer window yet.They are cooking something sweet up at Anfield.
