Arne Slot: Even Liverpool Can Lose Two Matches in a Row

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot expressed his disappointment following the 2–1 defeat to Newcastle in the 2024/25 English League Cup Final. The loss marked the second consecutive setback for the Reds in just a matter of days, following their UEFA Champions League exit at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain.

“Today’s performance was disappointing, and my feelings are very different compared to our match against PSG,” Slot said. “Losing twice in a row—this might be the first time it’s happened to us all season, but that’s part of what happens when you reach the latter stages of tournaments.”

Reflecting on the recent schedule, Slot noted the challenges posed by two formidable opponents:

“We faced two very strong teams: PSG and Newcastle. One of them is fighting for Champions League qualification—Newcastle is an excellent side, as we saw at St. James’ Park. The other is Paris Saint-Germain; if they can beat us in that manner, perhaps they’re the best in Europe right now. We’ll see in the next couple of months.”

On Liverpool’s Physical and Mental State

When asked if the energy-draining Champions League clash might have left Liverpool fatigued, Slot dismissed the idea:

“No, today’s match had nothing to do with running or high-intensity effort—it was all about battling, especially in the air. There was no real pressing from us because Newcastle used a lot of long passes, so our physical condition wasn’t truly tested. The psychological factor, however, was significant. When you face teams with this kind of style, it can disrupt your usual approach.”

On Newcastle’s Motivation and Style

Slot addressed questions about Newcastle’s hunger for a trophy, having not won one for 70 years:

“Players only have about 15 years in their career—everyone always wants to win. It’s not about how many years a club has gone without silverware. The match went exactly as Newcastle wanted: aerial duels, physical battles. If we face them ten times under those conditions, maybe we’d lose nine. They are simply better than us in that component.”

Looking Ahead

Despite the setbacks, the Dutch manager highlighted a silver lining:

“The week started really well for us. We beat Southampton, and that extended our league lead from 10 to 12 points with nine matches left. Of course, we’d love to keep winning all season, but sometimes you’re going to lose, even if you’re Liverpool. After eight months of football, dropping two matches in a row can happen—especially against Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle.”

With two major defeats in quick succession, Slot and his squad will be regrouping for the season’s home stretch—knowing all too well that every slip-up is magnified when you’re in contention for top honors. But as the manager himself put it, “Even Liverpool can lose football matches.”