Arne Slot impressed with Liverpool mentality as they go 13 points clear | OneFootball

Arne Slot has praised Liverpool’s mental and physical resilience after a 2-0 win over Newcastle which was a dress rehearsal for the EFL Cup final in less than a month.

Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to 13 points with a dominant 2-0 victory over Newcastle United, as Arne Slot’s side took another huge step toward the title in his first season in charge.

Goals from Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister in either half ensured a comfortable win at Anfield, capping off an intense period of five games in 15 days. With Arsenal held to a goalless draw at Nottingham Forest, Liverpool’s advantage at the summit has grown significantly, leaving them in a commanding position with just 10 games remaining.

While the Reds are edging closer to silverware, Slot was keen to emphasise the mental and physical resilience his squad has shown, particularly after navigating a relentless fixture schedule.

“What impressed me most was the mental strength of the team,” Slot said after the match. “Playing five games in 15 days is demanding, but the players have handled it brilliantly.”

The Dutchman also defended his decision to rest key players in previous cup ties, believing that strategic squad management is essential for long-term success.

“I’ve explained it before—this is why I didn’t take these players to Plymouth Argyle or PSV Eindhoven,” he added. “I believe they can play five games in 15 days, as they’ve shown, but they can’t do that for 10 months straight. They need breaks to maintain their levels.”

Despite the growing gap at the top, Slot dismissed any talk of complacency and insisted his full focus is now on Liverpool’s upcoming Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain.

Slot was asked on whether he feels the title is close: “My main focus is on Paris Saint-Germain,” he said. “I forget the Premier League now until after that game—then I’ll think about it again.”

With Liverpool now in firm control of the title race, Slot’s measured approach will be key as the Reds look to maintain their dominance and finish the season in style.