Arne Slot has admitted that “something is wrong” with Liverpool as they prepare for their Champions League debut.

Arne Slot has admitted that “something is wrong” with Liverpool after their unexpected home loss to Nottingham Forest. He denied, however, that the defeat was a result of insufficient squad rotation. Liverpool, who had won their first three Premier League matches without conceding, were beaten 1-0 at Anfield by a goal from Callum Hudson-Odoi, which earned Forest the three points.

Arne Slot will lead Liverpool to Milan on Tuesday for their first Champions League match of the season, aiming to rectify the issues highlighted by their recent defeat to Nottingham Forest.

In his pre-match press conference, Slot expressed disappointment with the loss, stating, “The result against Nottingham Forest was disappointing not just for journalists but for the team and me as well. We were positive after beating United, but we saw areas that need improvement.”

Slot acknowledged the difference in the upcoming challenge against Milan, saying, “The game against Milan will be completely different from the one against Nottingham Forest, given their players and manager’s style.”

He also addressed concerns about rotation, emphasizing, “It’s too simplistic to blame rotation for the loss. Many players, not just the starters but also those who came on, did not perform at their usual level.” He confirmed that new signing Federico Chiesa will be part of the squad for the first time since joining from Juventus.

Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker has called for football authorities to address player welfare issues as the Reds prepare for an expanded Champions League campaign.

The tournament now includes 36 teams, leading to two extra group-stage matches and extending the phase until the end of January, rather than mid-December. While former manager Jürgen Klopp was vocal about the crowded fixture list, Alisson has also raised concerns, saying players are “tired” of the increasingly congested schedule.

Ahead of Liverpool’s match against AC Milan, Alisson said, “For supporters, more games mean exciting matchups and bigger teams facing each other, which is great. But for players, it’s not as positive. Suggesting more games in an already busy schedule is somewhat ironic.”

He continued, “It often seems that players’ opinions on the matter aren’t considered. We’re all well aware of how we feel about the packed calendar—we’re simply worn out.”