Arne Slot has acknowledged that he will disappoint a particular Liverpool player this season, but believes it is for the best.
Diogo Jota has been a starter in six of the first seven matches this season, missing only last weekend’s win over Bournemouth. The head coach emphasized that managing the 27-year-old’s playing time is essential to maintaining his fitness, given his past injury issues.
After Jota scored twice in the 5-1 victory against West Ham on Wednesday, Slot commented on the importance of rotation to keep Jota fit. He noted, “We are trying to manage his minutes effectively, while also preparing him during the week and the pre-season for the demanding schedule of the Premier League.”
Jota has an impressive scoring record for Liverpool, netting 59 goals in 151 matches, and his performance last night showcased his exceptional goal-scoring ability. However, considering the team’s strong attacking depth and Jota’s injury history, it’s wise for Slot to carefully regulate his game time to avoid further injuries. Last season, the former Wolves player missed 25 matches due to a calf injury that sidelined him for four months, limiting Liverpool’s goal-scoring options significantly.
With three matches coming up in eight days, it’s likely that Jota will not start in at least one of them, though he will be eager to play against his former club at Molineux on Saturday. As long as Slot has a full squad to choose from, Jota’s inclusion in the lineup will be strategically managed, aiming to prevent past injuries and maximize his goal-scoring potential.
