Slot confident in Liverpool's strong position for the future

According to manager Arne Slot, Liverpool's strategy of signing promising young talents will ensure the club's stability for the long haul, even amid a challenging campaign for the Premier League title holders.

The team currently occupies sixth spot in the Premier League following a tough introduction to Anfield for several fresh faces, acquired during a summer spending burst approaching £450 million ($616 million).

The promising French centre-back Jeremy Jacquet is set to arrive ahead of the next season, with Liverpool finalising a transfer from Rennes that could reach £60 million for the 20-year-old.

"He represents a major talent and fits perfectly into the approach we're adopting here," Slot commented on Thursday.

"We're targeting youthful, gifted individuals, either just embarking on their professional paths or with a couple of seasons under their belts, but always those who can boost us immediately and over an extended period.

"We've brought in plenty lately, and both the immediate and medium-term outlook for this side feels solid."

Among the high-profile additions, Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz from the Bundesliga are starting to justify the investment of almost £200 million.

Ekitike notched a brace in last weekend's 4-1 triumph against Newcastle, bringing his seasonal total to 15 goals, whereas Wirtz has found the net six times across 10 outings since breaking a 22-match drought for his debut Liverpool strike.

"As coach, even during early struggles, you must persist with him, as that's the sole route to growth," Slot remarked about Wirtz adapting to the Premier League.

"His on-ball quality was exceptional from day one. Perhaps his links with squad mates have strengthened through increased shared time on the pitch.

"The most notable progress in him, and in several others, comes off the ball, and that synergy prepares you for this league."

On Sunday, Liverpool will welcome Manchester City in a clash carrying major implications for the championship contest and the push for Champions League qualification next term.

City lag six points behind Arsenal at the summit and risk extending that gap to nine before their encounter, given the leaders face Sunderland on Saturday.

Should Manchester United and Chelsea prevail on Saturday, Liverpool might trail the top five by four points, the threshold typically needed for Champions League entry.

Slot aims to rectify the 3-0 loss to City back in November.

"They outperformed us then, but we're determined to display a sharper version this time around."