Liverpool is gearing up for their first public match under new manager Arne Slot, set to face Real Betis in Pittsburgh on Friday night. Following a 1-0 defeat to Preston North End in a behind-closed-doors game last week, Slot will be looking tobounce back with a stronger performance.

The new Reds boss was missing several senior stars in the previous match, with players who participated in Euro 2024 and the Copa America given extra time off. Those international stars will also skip the clash with Betis, but with just three weeks to go until the Slot era begins for real with a Premier League trip to Ipswich, there’s plenty to look forward to.

So, what can we expect from the next chapter of Liverpool’s story? Here are five things to keep an eye on this summer:

A Shift in Tactics

After eight and a half seasons of Jurgen Klopp’s high-intensity “heavy-metal football,” Liverpool fans can expect a slightly more measured approach under Slot. While both managers favor 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formations, Slot’s tactical plan prioritizes possession and patience over rapid counter-attacks.

Reds players will focus on maintaining possession and building attacks from the back, rather than looking to quickly transition from defense to offense. This more controlled approach could lead to a more patient, build-up style of play.

You can expect to see more focus on passing and keeping the ball by Reds players this season

New Signings on the Horizon

Liverpool are currently the only Premier League club without any new signings this summer, but that’s likely to change soon. Slot has identified the need for reinforcements, citing difficulties in assessing the squad and finding suitable replacements for the team’s existing talent.

The Reds boss is confident that new signings will arrive, stating that it would be a surprise if no new players joined the club before the transfer window closes on August 30.

Liverpool have not signed any new players since the end of last season but they will eventually

Star Players’ Futures Uncertain

Mo Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold are all approaching the final year of their contracts, leaving Liverpool vulnerable to losing them for free next summer if new deals aren’t agreed upon.

It’s possible that at least one of these star players could leave this summer if a significant offer comes in. Salah has been linked with interest from Saudi Arabia and the USA, while Alexander-Arnold is reportedly on Real Madrid’s radar.

Mo Salah (right) is currently with the Reds squad in the USA but he is wanted in Saudi Arabia

Squad Players Get a Fresh Start

While some players may have been happy to see Klopp go, others could benefit from a fresh start under Slot. Midfielder Curtis Jones, who started just 14 of Liverpool’s 38 Premier League matches last season, is one player who could thrive under the new manager.

Jones has praised Slot’s approach, stating that he’s the happiest he’s been in a long time. The midfielder believes the new manager’s style of play suits him and the team, and is looking forward to playing a more central role in the side.

Midfielder Curtis Jones, 23, pictured (centre) on the ball during Thursday’s training session

Youth Players Get Their Chance

With many first-team players still absent, Liverpool’s youngsters will get a chance to impress Slot in the US. The likes of Ben Doak, Vitezslav Jaros, James McConnell, and others will be looking to make a statement and potentially earn a spot in the first team.

Jaros, in particular, could benefit from Caoimhin Kelleher’s potential departure, which could see him promoted to second-choice goalkeeper.

Vitezslav Jaros, 23, is one of Liverpool’s young players who are keen to impress this summer

As the summer unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how these storylines develop and what the future holds for Liverpool under Arne Slot.