Fabio Carvalho has disclosed some interesting observations about how Arne Slot wants his Liverpool team to play.
Reds fans have now had the opportunity to see a bit of the Dutchman’s tactics courtesy of the two friendlies in the USA.
Liverpool secured a 2-1 victory over Arsenal in a lively pre-season friendly at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
The match played in the early hours of Thursday morning for those in the UK, saw both Premier League giants fielding strong line-ups as they fine-tuned their preparations for the upcoming season.
The Reds took the lead in the 13th minute through Mohamed Salah. The Egyptian forward finished clinically after being set up by a precise through ball from Harvey Elliott.
Liverpool doubled their advantage before halftime when Elliott once again provided an assist, this time lofting a pass over the Arsenal defense for Fabio Carvalho, who volleyed home with finesse.
Arsenal managed to pull one back before the break. Kai Havertz scored from close range following a well-placed cross by Martin Odegaard, making it 2-1 by the interval.
The Gunners pushed for an equalizer in the second half, with Gabriel Jesus and Fabio Vieira coming close to scoring.
However, Liverpool’s defense, marshaled effectively despite some intense pressure, held firm to see out the result.
What did Fabio Carvalho say about Arne Slot playstyle?
Fabio Carvalho has looked sharp in pre-season with a decision on his immediate future for the 2024/25 campaign yet to be made.
The 21-year-old staked his claim for a spot in Slot’s 2024/25 squad with a well-taken goal against the Gunners.
And speaking to liverpoolfc.com after the clash, Carvalho was quizzed on what he has noticed about the new playstyle:
“I’d probably say playing more through the midfield. Players like Curtis, Harvey and Szobo as well – we’ve got the players to do so.”
“Playing through them and getting me, Mo and the players higher up like Jots on the ball as well.”
“Being able to play through the thirds is what we want to do and what the manager wants to be our identity.”
He also revealed that the coaching staff are encouraging him to make runs in behind despite playing the No.10 role:
“Playing through the thirds is what he wants us to do and getting a lot of players in the box.”
“Obviously, a great pass by Harvey, that’s what he does best.”
“Obviously I’ve known Harvey a long time so we already have that connection and I know if I make a run into the box, he’s going to find me.”
“As long as you get contact and get it on target.”
“Not just the gaffer but the coaching staff have been on to me about running in behind, not just getting it into feet. That’s something I’ve been working on.”
Finally, Carvalho also shared that Slot is not just worried about the attacking parts of his game:
“He wants me to obviously do the defensive stuff first. He knows what qualities I have.”
“It’s good to have someone that’s always onto me, making sure I’m on it, and that’s what I’ve got from the gaffer.”
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