Facing questions about Liverpool's record-breaking transfer activity at a Champions League pre-match press conference, manager Arne Slot defended the club's summer spending. Liverpool spent $603 million to acquire 7 new players, including high-profile signings Alexander Isak ($175.5 million from Newcastle), Florian Wirtz ($170 million from Leverkusen), and Hugo Ekitike ($106.5 million from Frankfurt).

Alexander Isak (left) and Mohamed Salah during a Liverpool training session on 16/9. Photo: Reuters

Alexander Isak (left) and Mohamed Salah during a Liverpool training session on 16/9. Photo: Reuters

Slot expressed frustration with what he perceived as biased commentary, emphasizing that Liverpool also generated nearly $300 million from player sales. "People keep talking about the $603 million, but they forget we also sold players for almost $300 million. If you want to strengthen the team, you have to spend," he stated.

According to Slot, Liverpool's spending was possible due to years of sound financial management, ensuring compliance with Financial Fair Play regulations. The 47-year-old manager highlighted the strategic nature of the investments, emphasizing the youth of the new signings, all under 25. "Some clubs prefer buying 27-year-old players for immediate impact. We chose 21 and 22-year-olds who are also ready. It's an investment in the future," Slot explained.

New signing Alexander Isak, who has played only 18 minutes for the Swedish national team this season, is expected to feature in the upcoming match against Atletico Madrid. Slot confirmed Isak's inclusion in the squad but cautioned against expecting a full 90 minutes. "The priority is for Isak to regain full fitness, play a full match, and then build towards playing three games a week. He will undoubtedly score goals and create special moments, but first he needs to reach peak physical condition," Slot said.

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk also praised Isak. "The first impression is very good. He's hungry, and his quality was evident from the first training session," Van Dijk commented. "We've talked a lot, even during the international break. The key is to help Isak quickly adapt to our playing style, pressing, set-pieces, and the past week has gone smoothly. Now let's see how he performs."

Van Dijk compared Isak to another new signing, Hugo Ekitike, who has already scored three goals in five matches. "Isak is a complete forward, good with his head, left foot, and finishing into the top corner. But you could say the same about Ekitike. They have slightly different styles but are both strong, fast, and know how to link up play. I'm fortunate to have them both on my side now," the 34-year-old captain added.

Hong Duy (BBC)