After Liverpool's latest setback against Sunderland, comments have come to light from two stars who have already expressed "unhappiness" with Arne Slot's decisions
Liverpool's 1-1 draw at home to Sunderland was the latest evidence to suggest all is not well with the reigning Premier League champions. And two players have already expressed "unhappiness" with Arne Slot's decision-making this season.
The Reds gave up two more points against the Black Cats on Wednesday after having to fight from behind following Chemsdine Talbi's opener at Anfield. An own-goal from Nordi Mukiele levelled the score in the 81st minute but Slot's side couldn't find a second as they remained in eighth place.
Mohamed Salah was benched for the second straight game after he was an unused substitute in Sunday's 2-0 win over West Ham. And Slot revealed how Salah vented his disappointment after learning he wouldn't be part of the XI that faced the Hammers on the weekend.
"Fair assumption and normal reaction for someone who can play for us," said Slot prior to Wednesday's draw against Sunderland. "Of course, a player isn't happy he isn't playing, he wasn't the only one I can tell you."
The Dutchman went on to credit Salah for his professional response in light of being dropped from the XI. Slot added that his star was "very supportive for his team-mates and handled himself really well" despite the disappointment.
Federico Chiesa is another who has felt the brunt of Slot's savage cuts after being excluded from Liverpool's Champions League squad in September. And the Italy international made his discontent known, though he saw logic in his manager's "argument."
"Of course, that is one of the most difficult things you have to do as a manager," he said at the time. "For a player not to play, it is not always easy to tell them but not to be in the squad is always more difficult. I just explained to him why we made this choice. Of course, he wasn’t happy with that.
"I think he understood my arguments - that is not to say he agreed with them. He didn’t tell me, by the way, that he didn’t agree with them! But he gave me the answer you want to hear from a player, that he will be there to help the team in the cups and in the league."
Chiesa has made 15 appearances in all competitions this season but has banked a paltry two starts, both of which came in the EFL Cup. He has two goals and three assists to show for his efforts but won't be a part of Liverpool's European campaign for the time being.
The 28-year-old is one who stands to benefit from Salah's sidelining as he looks to earn more starting minutes himself. His chances could improve as Salah prepares to link up with Egypt for the Africa Cup of Nations this month, though Slot seemingly requires some more convincing.