Liverpool manager Arne Slot warned his team must tighten up defensively if they are to retain the Premier League crown, following a 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace in the Community Shield that ended in a penalty shootout defeat.
The Reds, who spent £260 million on new signings, impressed going forward with Hugo Ekitike and Jeremie Frimpong on the scoresheet, but twice surrendered their lead as Palace equalised through Jean-Philippe Mateta’s penalty and Ismaila Sarr’s late strike.
Slot praised the improved creativity compared to last season but admitted defensive lapses — also seen in pre-season defeats to AC Milan and narrow wins over Athletic Bilbao — remain a concern. Only Arsenal had a stronger defensive record last season, and Slot wants improvements before Friday’s Premier League opener at home to Bournemouth.
Liverpool remain linked with Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, but Slot dismissed suggestions that the club’s transfer spending will add extra pressure, insisting the weight of expectation is always present at Anfield.
