Liverpool make statement in Marseille
Arne Slot reserved special praise for Mohamed Salah’s “professional” approach after Liverpool produced a controlled, convincing victory away to Marseille to move up to fourth in the Champions League standings.
The Reds set the tone early at the Stade Vélodrome, combining patience in possession with incisive attacking moments to keep Roberto De Zerbi’s side at arm’s length. Liverpool’s structure without the ball was just as impressive, limiting Marseille’s best routes into the final third and turning the contest into the kind of European away performance that travels well.
The result also continued an excellent recent record on the continent for Liverpool, who have now won nine of their last 11 European away matches — a run that underlines their maturity in high-pressure environments.
Slot: Salah ready despite minimal preparation
Post-match, Slot focused on Salah’s readiness and attitude after the forward completed the full 90 minutes despite only returning to training the day before.
Slot’s message was clear: Liverpool’s leading scorer may be among the biggest names in the squad, but his preparation and standards remain those of a model professional. With Liverpool navigating a demanding schedule, the manager pointed to Salah’s conditioning and focus as key reasons he could be trusted to play through the entire match.
Salah’s performance reflected that sharpness, offering constant movement and decision-making in the final third, while also doing his share defensively when Liverpool needed to settle the game.
Gomez earns spotlight for defensive work
Slot also highlighted Joe Gomez’s contribution, with the versatile defender delivering a composed display that helped Liverpool maintain control.
Gomez’s ability to handle different roles across the back line has become increasingly valuable as Liverpool balance domestic demands with European ambition. Against Marseille, his calmness under pressure and willingness to step in and win duels helped blunt the home side’s threat, particularly during moments when De Zerbi’s team attempted to raise the tempo.
Qarabag next as Liverpool target group-stage finish
Liverpool’s attention now turns to their final group fixture at Anfield next week, where they will host Qarabag. With qualification already trending in the right direction, Slot will be keen to finish the group phase strongly, sustain momentum and manage his squad intelligently as the competition moves toward its knockout stages.
If the win in Marseille was any indication, Liverpool have both the experience and the depth to approach the next phase with confidence — and Slot will hope the same professionalism he lauded in Salah continues to set the standard across the dressing room.
