Liverpool have not seen quite as much development from their academy through to the first team in 2024/25.
The previous season was something of a red letter one under Jurgen Klopp, with so many promising young players emerging into the senior side.
However, although Arne Slot arrived with a similar reputation for blooding youth, Liverpool fans did not really see evidence of that this term.
Nevertheless, that does not mean there were no signs of life from the Liverpool academy.
Conor Bradley had another strong year and now looks set to take over starting duties from Trent Alexander-Arnold. Meanwhile, Jarell Quansah has consolidated his status as a regular in the Liverpool squad.
Despite playing another 24 games, though, there have been some question marks of Quansah’s level this season. But when asked about the centre-back on Friday, Slot suggested he has no concerns for the future.
Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images
Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images
Arne Slot has no Jarell Quansah concerns
Quansah had a difficult outing against Chelsea last Sunday. The 22-year-old scored an own goal and conceded a late penalty.
But there were also plenty of positive signs from Quansah. And when asked about his thoughts on the former academy youngster, Slot was keen to focus on the good stuff.
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“He has all the qualities and he has already shown that to me – but also to you – to play for this club,” said the Liverpool head coach.
“But the biggest part of us winning the league is of course consistency and that is the most difficult part for a younger player to get that as well. Some, like Lamine Yamal, it’s not a really big problem for him to find consistency.”
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“But Jarell, I think he developed really well throughout the whole season and the next step is for him to not be involved in a moment like this in the last minutes, which had no impact on the result.
“It would’ve been nice for him if it wouldn’t have happened [against Chelsea] because then probably everyone would’ve been much more positive about his performance,” Slot added.
“Jarell is fast, strong and comfortable on the ball. He has every ingredient a centre-back for this club should have. Now the last parts should be consistency in his performances.”
Slot not looking to sell Quansah?
Along with the uncertainty over the quality of his performances, there have also been some suggestions that Liverpool could sell Quansah this summer.
While those rumours don’t seem to be going anywhere fast, Slot’s comments here would indicate that the Dutchman is not planning to lose Quansah.
More than that, they should also serve as a reminder that the defender is in fact a very serviceable option for Liverpool and that they would be unwise to rush into selling him.
It has undoubtedly been a more difficult season for Quansah than the one he experienced last year. But that doesn’t mean it has been all bad.
He ends the season having contributed for the Premier League champions and the struggles along the way should only help as he aims to become a better player. Do not write him off yet.