A key narrative in Liverpool’s first pre-season under Arne Slot has been the absence of prominent players.
Missing stars like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, and Alisson has given the feeling of a band embarking on a world tour without its lead vocalist.
This situation poses a challenge for the new Dutch coach as he seeks to implement his philosophies and style without many of his key contributors. However, a silver lining is that it has created opportunities for several young and fringe players to excel.
From returning loanees like Fabio Carvalho to youthful talents such as 17-year-old Trey Nyoni, numerous players have been granted the chance to showcase their abilities and convince Slot of their value in his plans.
Here, Mail Sport evaluates which players have seized this opportunity…
Several youngsters have impressed on Liverpool’s pre-season tour of the USA this summer
Arne Slot has been forced to work without many of his star names at the start of his tenure
FABIO CARVALHO
The talented Portuguese player spent the second half of last season on loan at Hull City after facing difficulties at RB Leipzig. In a recent conversation with Mail Sport, he expressed his readiness to step up and demonstrate to Slot that he is prepared for a significant role.
Since signing from Fulham in 2022, Carvalho has appeared in 21 matches for Liverpool, but his future with the club remains uncertain. Numerous clubs, both domestically and abroad, are interested in acquiring the 21-year-old, yet Liverpool is only considering a permanent transfer.
Despite this interest from teams like Fulham, Southampton, and Leicester, Carvalho’s primary focus is on making a positive impression on Slot. The Dutch coach has been closely mentoring Carvalho and has advised him that his optimal position is on the left wing rather than as a No. 10.
He has shown flashes of talent during matches against Real Betis and Arsenal in the States; however, with the anticipated return of players like Luis Diaz and Cody Gakpo, his playing time may be limited. Nevertheless, he remains a focal point in Slot’s training sessions, indicating he is still valued in the squad.
Mail Sport verdict: remain until January.
It is a big summer for Fabio Carvalho, who has said he’s ready to step up for a key first team role
TREY NYONI
One of the standout performers during Liverpool’s pre-season tour. Slot remarked on the high level displayed by some young players, and while he withheld names, Nyoni likely impressed him.
The midfielder, who joined Liverpool from Leicester last year as part of the club’s strategy to recruit talented teenagers, turned 17 just last month and was named man of the match in the Reds’ 1-0 victory over Real Betis recently.
He consistently engaged with the ball, seeking to create chances with impressive dribbles and dynamic passes. In the match against Arsenal, he took on a more defensive role, and Slot mentioned that he needs to enhance his defensive skills. However, based on his pre-season performance, he appears to be a promising talent.
Mail Sport verdict: ready for the first team.
Trey Nyoni has been one of the shining lights of Liverpool’s pre-season tour at the age of just 17
STEFAN BAJCETIC
A challenging year for the Spaniard, marred by a concerning injury that was largely attributed to growing pains. Slot aims to manage his playing time effectively this season following a breakout campaign in 2022-23, where he made 19 appearances.
He has lost a close companion in Thiago Alcantara, who departed after coming through the same youth setup in Galicia. Despite this, Bajcetic is well-regarded and is expected to play a role this season. Johnny Heitinga, part of Slot’s coaching staff, has been conducting individual training sessions for the 19-year-old.
Mail Sport verdict: ready for the first team.
Stefan Bajcetic is highly-rated and will have a part to play after an injury-ravaged season
LUKE CHAMBERS
Described as a ‘diamond’ by his former Kilmarnock manager, Derek McInnes, who noted last year in an interview with Mail Sport that Chambers is among the best loanees he has worked with due to his dedication. Chambers spent the second half of last season at Wigan and is expected to return to the League One club. Reports suggest he turned down Championship interest for this move, which will be assessed in January.
Mail Sport verdict: go out on loan.
KAIDE GORDON
Gordon, who made history as Liverpool’s youngest-ever goal scorer in 2021, has faced difficulties since, suffering a similar injury to Bajcetic. He remarked this week on the challenges of recovery, stating, “It’s been tough, there’s been ups and downs – you feel ready to return but are often told it’s going to take longer.”
Interest has been shown from lower-league clubs in the winger, who is still just 19, and it appears a loan move would benefit him after a difficult year plagued by injuries. Many current first-team players have successfully been loaned out, suggesting that this move need not signify the end of his career at Liverpool.
Mail Sport verdict: go out on loan.
Kaide Gordon (right) became Liverpool’s youngest-goalscorer in 2021 but has struggled since
BEN DOAK
Lauded as the ‘Tasmanian devil’ by captain Van Dijk last year, Doak made an appearance in the Premier League opener against Chelsea last season, leading to speculation about a breakout year ahead.
However, following a serious meniscus injury that required surgery, Doak was largely unavailable for the rest of the season. He also missed out on Scotland’s European Championship squad due to another injury. At just 18 years old, he remains a significant talent, known for his incredible speed.
Interest from clubs like Leicester and Southampton for a loan move has emerged. Doak is expected to have discussions with Slot and transfer expert Richard Hughes next week regarding his future development.
Although drawing comparisons may not be entirely accurate, his situation is reminiscent of Phil Foden’s early days at Manchester City. The decision looms: should he gain experience on loan or remain at Liverpool and absorb the atmosphere of the first team?
Mail Sport verdict: go out on loan.
Ben Doak has got so much potential but this season is the time for the Scot to go out on loan
JAMES McCONNELL
Another player attracting significant loan interest, with numerous Championship clubs monitoring his situation. McConnell has not participated in this tour due to a minor injury but enjoyed a breakthrough year last season and now requires more regular playing time.
At 19 years old, McConnell was signed from Sunderland’s academy and initially played as an advanced midfielder but has since transitioned into a No 6 under Jurgen Klopp’s guidance last year. This versatility could be vital for Slot’s more measured playing style.
Mail Sport verdict: go out on loan.
VITEZSLAV JAROS
If Caoimhin Kelleher does not depart – as there have been no offers as of yet – the towering Czech goalkeeper will take the third-choice role this season. However, he may not be content with that situation. Jaros had an impressive loan spell at Sturm Graz last season, winning both the Austrian Bundesliga and cup.
He has also gained experience from participating in European competitions and was part of the Czech national team during their recent campaign in Germany. At 23, Jaros possesses the skillset to contribute to Liverpool, but whether he will be satisfied in a limited role remains uncertain.
Mail Sport verdict: ready for the first team.
Vitezslav Jaros enjoyed a brilliant loan spell in Austria last season and is ready for the first team
OWEN BECK
Beck was recognized as the top left back in Scotland last season, having two loan spells at Dundee. The 21-year-old Welshman has drawn interest from Celtic, but Liverpool prefers a sale rather than another loan.
However, Beck has garnered considerable interest from QPR and several other top Championship sides. A loan could enhance his value for a future fight for a position next year or potentially secure a more lucrative sale.
With players like Andy Robertson, Kostas Tsimikas, and Joe Gomez capable of filling in at left back, it appears that Beck may see limited action this season. Therefore, a loan might be beneficial for his development this summer.
Mail Sport verdict: go out on loan.
AMARA NALLO
We saw Nallo for the first time against Arsenal in Philadelphia after the defender’s move from West Ham last summer. Coaches have praised his growth, and his participation in this tour serves as recognition for an outstanding first season in the academy.
Mail Sport verdict: continue to develop in the academy.
Amara Nallo got a place on this tour as a reward for a stellar first season in the academy
LEWIS KOUMAS
He was the highlight of the show with a goal against Southampton in the FA Cup last season, and Koumas undoubtedly has a bright future at Liverpool. There is notable interest in a loan arrangement, and it’s uncertain how Liverpool intends to utilize him.
The same applies to fellow forward Jayden Danns, who is not participating in this tour due to an injury. Rumors of Danns nearing a deal with Wayne Rooney at Plymouth last week were inaccurate.
Mail Sport verdict: continue to develop in the academy.
SEPP VAN DEN BERG
Perhaps the most intriguing case on this list. The Dutch defender indicated last week that he feels priced out of a move, citing the high £20 million asking price as a barrier.
Liverpool has established this figure based on comparable transfers this summer. For instance, Dean Huijsen had only nine Serie A appearances before Bournemouth acquired him for £15 million, and Taylor Harwood-Bellis was transferred to Southampton for £20 million following two successful seasons in the second tier.
Having played two seasons in the Bundesliga and two in the Championship, the club considers £20 million to be reasonable. He has delivered impressive performances during pre-season and has stood out in training. Leaving is not a certainty.
Mail Sport verdict: ready for the first team.
Sepp van den Berg said he was being priced out of a move but he may have a role to play
TYLER MORTON
Widely regarded at Anfield and having rejected offers from Everton to join as a youth, Morton participated in Champions League matches for Liverpool but spent the prior season on loan at Hull, where he excelled as one of the top midfielders in the Championship.
RB Leipzig, Atalanta, Leicester, and Ipswich have shown interest in signing him, with Liverpool valuing him at approximately £20 million and preferring a permanent sale over a loan. With a deep midfield roster, Morton’s opportunities might be limited despite his quality.
Mail Sport verdict: permanent deal preferred.
Although Tyer Morton is a classy player, his chances might be limited and he could be sold
HARVEY BLAIR
A talented prospect who was signed from Manchester United as a youth, Blair is drawing interest from several lower-league clubs after a few strong appearances in pre-season. At 20, regular game time seems essential for his growth.
Mail Sport verdict: go out on loan.
LUCA STEPHENSON
An avid Sunderland fan who looks up to Lee Cattermole and has a passion for darts, Stephenson showcased his skills during this tour by appearing against Real Betis and playing the second half in the victory over Arsenal, successfully neutralizing Leandro Trossard.
He spent last season on loan at League Two Barrow, where he earned adoration from their supporters. Is making the leap to a more significant role this season a possibility? Look to Conor Bradley and Jarell Quansah, who transitioned from League One to consistent first-team positions in only 18 months.
However, with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Joe Gomez still yet to return to training, the right-back’s opportunities will likely be minimal. A further loan appears to be the best option for the 20-year-old’s growth.
Mail Sport verdict: go out on loan.
Luca Stephenson was hugely popular on loan at Barrow last season and another loan suits
HARVEY DAVIES
So far, Davies has not appeared on this tour and it would be surprising if he remains at Liverpool much longer. The goalkeeper spent last season loaned to League Two Crewe Alexandra but faced criticism from fans for several mistakes made during his time there.
Mail Sport verdict: permanent deal recommended.
MARCELO PITALUGA
Liverpool ended Pitaluga’s loan at Irish club St Patrick’s Athletic early so he could join the tour of America. St Pat’s manager remarked, “He’s a breath of fresh air, a great guy with a promising future ahead of him.” However, it seems that another loan is necessary for his continued development.
Mail Sport verdict: go out on loan.
