Liverpool's 1-1 draw against Sunderland at Anfield was the latest sign that all is not rosy for the current Premier League champions. Two players have already voiced their "unhappiness" with Arne Slot's decision-making this season.
The Reds dropped another two points to the Black Cats on Wednesday, having to claw back from a deficit after Chemsdine Talbi's opening goal. An own-goal from Nordi Mukiele in the 81st minute equalised the score, but Slot's squad couldn't muster a winning goal, leaving them stuck in eighth place.
Mohamed Salah found himself on the bench for the second consecutive match, having been an unused substitute in Sunday's 2-0 victory over West Ham. Slot disclosed how Salah expressed his disappointment upon learning he wouldn't be in the starting line-up against the Hammers.
"Fair assumption and normal reaction for someone who can play for us," Slot commented ahead of Wednesday's draw with Sunderland. "Of course, a player isn't happy he isn't playing, he wasn't the only one I can tell you."
Slot praised Salah for his professional attitude despite being left out of the starting XI, noting that the star was "very supportive for his team-mates and handled himself really well" amidst the disappointment.
Federico Chiesa has also felt the sting of Slot's ruthless decisions, having been left out of Liverpool's Champions League squad in September. The Italian international made his displeasure known, though he acknowledged the logic behind his manager's "argument.
Liverpool's Federico Chiesa gestures during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Ipswich Town FC at Anfield
Federico Chiesa has failed to make himself part of Arne Slot's plans (Image: CameraSport via Getty Images)
"Of course, that is one of the most difficult things you have to do as a manager," he said at the time. "For a player not to play, it is not always easy to tell them but not to be in the squad is always more difficult. I just explained to him why we made this choice. Of course, he wasn't happy with that.
"I think he understood my arguments - that is not to say he agreed with them. He didn't tell me, by the way, that he didn't agree with them! But he gave me the answer you want to hear from a player, that he will be there to help the team in the cups and in the league."
Arne Slot reacts
Liverpool boss Arne Slot reacts (Image: Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)
Chiesa has featured 15 times across all competitions this season but has only started twice, with both outings coming in the EFL Cup. He's contributed two goals and three assists during his time on the pitch but won't be involved in Liverpool's European campaign for now.
The 28 year old could capitalize on Salah's absence as he seeks to secure more regular starting opportunities. His prospects may brighten further as Salah prepares to join up with Egypt for the Africa Cup of Nations this month, although Slot appears to need additional persuasion.