New Liverpool manager Arne Slot, whose team is currently leading the Premier League and competing for multiple trophies, is urging English football authorities to increase the size of match-day squads to 23 players.
Currently, domestic competitions allow teams to name nine substitutes. However, with squads now comprising 25 players, Slot is finding it challenging to manage playing time and keep all members of his team engaged.
“We are here in a country where we play the most games, especially the likes of Aston Villa, Chelsea, Arsenal, us – all the ones playing in Europe and we have the League Cup and the FA Cup,” Slot said.
He questions why the English league doesn’t allow 23-player match-day squads, arguing that with the high volume of games played in England, especially by teams competing in Europe, having only 20 players available for each game is insufficient for maintaining a positive dressing room environment.
He clarifies that nine substitutes are adequate for any given match but that more than 20 players are needed to keep the squad engaged overall. While Slot’s concerns are valid, some argue that allowing larger match-day squads could create a competitive imbalance, favoring clubs with greater resources than others.
Slot is also wary of the recent trial of referees making live announcements regarding VAR decisions during matches. His club has been part of the trial, with officials explaining their decision-making process during Carabao Cup matches.
This protocol is expected to be implemented in the Premier League in the future, but Slot is not in favor of it.
“For me, that is not necessary,” Slot said.
He worries that it could put referees under additional pressure, especially when decisions go against the home team.
As Liverpool enters the crucial final stretch of the season, the pressure on the team and their manager is intensifying, leading to increased scrutiny and commentary on various aspects of the game.