“We’re 100% Ready” – Arne Slot Previews Liverpool’s Premier League Opener Against Bournemouth | OneFootball

Liverpool Ready for AFC Bournemouth Challenge as Arne Slot Targets Strong Title Defence

Liverpool open their 2025-26 Premier League campaign on Friday night at Anfield against AFC Bournemouth, with manager Arne Slot making it clear that his side are prepared for the task of defending their crown. The Dutchman, who led the Reds to the title in his debut season, addressed the media at the AXA Training Centre and spoke candidly about his squad’s readiness, areas for improvement and the threat posed by Bournemouth.

Squad Adaptation and Pre-Season Progress

Slot acknowledged that Liverpool have undergone significant changes since their championship-winning season, with “three or four starters” departing and four new arrivals bedding in. Injuries have disrupted preparations too, with Ryan Gravenberch ruled out again and Alexis Mac Allister only recently returning to match action.

“As ready as we can be,” said Slot, reflecting on pre-season performances. “Without the ball, it’s eight out of 10 times also very good – but the aim at this club is not eight out of 10 times, it’s 10 out of 10 times. And that is the fine-tuning we still need to find defensively.”

Photo: IMAGO

He pointed to encouraging moments, such as the disciplined defensive display against Athletic Club, balanced with reminders that set-piece lapses and turnovers against Crystal Palace exposed areas to refine.

Expectations for the Season Ahead

Slot is fully aware of the challenge Liverpool face in retaining the title. “To win it once is already very special, let alone if you can win it twice in three, four or five years,” he said, noting the strength of rivals who have also strengthened their squads. He expects the competition to be fiercer than ever, emphasising that the Premier League’s depth makes sustained success a rare achievement.

Bournemouth’s Intensity and Threat

Friday’s opponents, AFC Bournemouth, left a strong impression on Slot last season despite Liverpool winning both fixtures. “They made it really difficult for us last season,” he recalled. The 3-0 scoreline at Anfield flattered the Reds, with the visitors creating early chances and having a goal narrowly ruled out for offside.

He praised Bournemouth’s mentality, especially in the second half at Anfield and in the reverse fixture away, and expects them to be well-drilled and energetic again. “Very good team, good manager and a challenge for us on Friday,” he added, underlining the anticipation for an evening game under the Anfield lights.

Tactical Roles and Player Contributions

Slot touched on new tactical possibilities, highlighting how right-backs Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley could complement Mohamed Salah by creating more space for the Egyptian in one-on-one situations. He also discussed Dominik Szoboszlai’s versatility, noting the Hungarian’s pressing quality and capacity to operate both as a number 10 and in a deeper midfield role.

“I think he can play both roles really well,” Slot said, while outlining specific areas for Szoboszlai to develop, such as finding space between the lines or adjusting positioning when playing deeper.

Liverpool, Slot insisted, will be “100 per cent ready” come kick-off. While transition and adaptation remain part of the early-season picture, the manager’s focus is firmly on ensuring his side hit the required standards from the very first whistle.