Liverpool faced a setback in their debut match under the guidance of new manager Arne Slot, as they were defeated by Preston in a behind-closed-doors pre-season friendly.

The game, which marked the beginning of Slot’s tenure at the club, saw key players such as Mohamed Salah, Harvey Elliott, and new signing Dominik Szoboszlai take to the field.

Despite their presence, Liverpool couldn’t secure a win in this early test of their pre-season preparations.

The match offered a glimpse into Slot’s tactical approach and allowed him to assess his squad’s readiness for the upcoming season. Mohamed Salah, renowned for his goal-scoring prowess, had a few notable moments but was largely contained by Preston’s defense.

Harvey Elliott, who has been impressing with his development, showcased his skills and work rate in midfield, while Dominik Szoboszlai, the club’s recent acquisition, had the opportunity to integrate with his new teammates and adapt to Liverpool’s playing style.

Preston capitalized on their chances, demonstrating a level of sharpness and organization that Liverpool will look to emulate as they continue their pre-season schedule.

For Liverpool, the game highlighted the areas needing improvement and provided valuable insights into how the players are adapting to Slot’s methods and philosophy.

Although the result was not in Liverpool’s favor, pre-season matches serve as crucial preparation for the competitive season ahead.

Arne Slot will undoubtedly analyze this performance to make necessary adjustments and enhance the team’s performance.

The focus now shifts to the upcoming pre-season fixtures, where Liverpool will aim to build cohesion, refine their strategies, and gain momentum before the official competitions commence.