Liverpool manager Arne Slot is already planning for a crucial stretch of the new season without star forward Mohamed Salah, who will be away on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations from December 21 to January 18 in Morocco. His absence could see him miss up to six Premier League matches, making squad depth and tactical flexibility a priority for the reigning champions.
One of the club’s key summer signings, Jeremie Frimpong, is expected to play a major role in bridging the gap. The £29 million arrival from Bayer Leverkusen is primarily a right-back but brings valuable versatility, capable of playing further up the pitch as a right winger. This adaptability offers Liverpool an option to cover Salah’s absence while also providing competition for Conor Bradley, who steps in for Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Slot highlighted that Frimpong’s signing was part of a broader strategy to address multiple needs in the squad. His pace, attacking instincts, and defensive solidity make him a valuable asset for a team aiming to compete on multiple fronts this season.
Liverpool’s transfer business has been aggressive, with nearly £300 million invested and £150 million recouped through player sales. Yet, beyond the big-money signings, Slot is also turning to the club’s promising young talents. Teenage sensation Rio Ngumoha has been a standout in pre-season, impressing coaches and fans alike. His sharpness, creativity, and composure on the ball have sparked discussions about his potential involvement in competitive fixtures as early as the Community Shield.
Another name generating excitement is 17-year-old Trey Nyoni, who has already shown flashes of his ability in high-profile friendlies. The coaching staff is mindful of the challenges young players face when making the leap from academy football to the first team. The pace, physicality, and tactical demands are significantly higher, but both Ngumoha and Nyoni have responded positively to the challenge.
With Salah’s temporary departure looming, Liverpool’s approach blends strategic signings with youth development. The combination of Frimpong’s versatility, Ngumoha’s flair, and Nyoni’s maturity gives Slot several options to navigate the difficult period. As the season approaches, the focus will be on how effectively this mix of experience and emerging talent can sustain Liverpool’s title defence and maintain momentum in domestic and European competitions.
