Liverpool maintained their perfect record in this season’s Champions League with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Girona in Spain, but manager Arne Slot was far from satisfied with his team’s display.
A second-half penalty from Mohamed Salah proved to be the difference, earning the Reds all three points. However, the performance in Catalonia lacked intensity and sharpness, leaving Slot openly critical of his side’s lackluster showing (as reported by Mail Sport’s Lewis Steele on X).
Despite dominating possession for large parts of the game, Liverpool were forced to rely on goalkeeper Alisson Becker, who produced several crucial saves on his return from a hamstring injury. The Brazilian’s heroics highlighted the defensive gaps that allowed Girona to create multiple opportunities, something Slot did not shy away from addressing in his post-match comments.
While any away win in the Champions League is significant, Slot’s remarks reflect the high standards he demands from his players. Liverpool may have secured a place in the competition’s quarterfinals after winning all six group-stage matches, but the Dutchman is clearly not resting on those achievements.
The Reds are undoubtedly in a strong position, sitting at the top of both the Premier League and Champions League standings. However, the lack of intensity and clinical finishing in Girona serves as a reminder of the areas needing improvement, particularly with a tough domestic clash against Fulham looming this weekend.
There were still positives to take from the performance, including another goal from the ever-reliable Salah, the clean sheet, and a lively cameo from Harvey Elliott. As Liverpool prepare to welcome Fulham to Anfield on Sunday, Slot will be expecting a more polished display to maintain the team’s momentum.
While the Girona game might not have been Liverpool at their best, the Reds’ position at the top of both domestic and European competitions is a testament to their resilience and quality. As the team looks ahead to the rest of the season, fans can remain optimistic about what lies ahead—there’s plenty to be positive about.
