Liverpool will begin their Carabao Cup campaign on Wednesday, facing West Ham in a bid to defend the last trophy won under former manager Jurgen Klopp.
Despite Klopp’s seven major trophies at the helm, Liverpool were never able to win any of them in consecutive seasons.
Arne Slot, the club’s new manager, now faces the challenge of continuing Liverpool’s strong tradition in the competition and winning back-to-back titles.
Since taking over from Klopp this summer, Slot has made an excellent start to life at Liverpool.
With five wins and just one loss so far, Slot’s impact has been clear. He’s successfully navigated tough Premier League fixtures against teams managed by the likes of Kieran McKenna, Thomas Frank, Erik ten Hag, and Andoni Iraola, while also securing a Champions League victory over Paulo Fonseca’s side.
Arne Slot. Credit: Imago Images
On Wednesday, Slot will go up against West Ham’s Julen Lopetegui, who has struggled for form with his side. Despite Lopetegui’s success in replacing David Moyes, winning West Ham their first-ever European trophy, his team has only managed one win in their last five games this season.
Slot will be hoping to exploit their poor run of form to keep Liverpool’s cup defense on track.
Lopetegui’s praise for Arne Slot
Ahead of the clash, West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui spoke highly of Slot and the work he has done at Liverpool since taking charge.
The former Spain boss was asked about his thoughts on Slot’s start and offered praise for the Dutchman’s approach.
“Liverpool are a big, big team around the world and I think that they are being managed this year by a very good coach, too,” Lopetegui said. “He’s showing that he’s trying to continue the work of the last years, making his style because each coach is different. I think that they are doing very well.”
Arne Slot (L) and Ryan Gravenberch (R). Credit: Imago Images
Slot’s ability to maintain Liverpool’s high standards while implementing his own style has impressed Lopetegui, and the matchup between the two managers adds intrigue to the upcoming fixture.
Liverpool to make changes for West Ham clash
With the busy schedule in mind, Slot is expected to rotate his squad for the Carabao Cup tie.
The Liverpool boss has confirmed that goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher will start, giving him back-to-back appearances in goal.
Federico Chiesa is also likely to feature, potentially making his full debut for the Reds after impressing in recent substitute appearances.
Federico Chiesa. Credit: Imago Images
Lopetegui is expected to make changes of his own, with both teams likely fielding altered lineups for the midweek match.
While West Ham are searching for a boost in form, Liverpool will aim to continue their strong start to the season under Slot and move one step closer to defending their Carabao Cup title.
