Arne Slot rages at Liverpool star during defeat at Tottenham

Arne Slot was furious with one of his Liverpool players (Image: Getty)

Diogo Jota began the new Premier League season in fine form as the spearhead of Arne Slot's attack. However, his momentum was abruptly halted in October when he suffered a bruised rib after a collision with Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo at Anfield.

Jota missed 12 matches across all competitions during that frustrating period. Since returning to full fitness, the former Wolves forward's performance has been inconsistent.

He played a key role in a courageous 10-man comeback against Fulham and showed his lethal side in the 5-0 thrashing of West Ham in late December, where he scored from Mohamed Salah's pass after coming on as a substitute.

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Despite his undeniable talent, Liverpool's Diogo Jota has yet to secure a starting position under manager Arne Slot. With Cody Gakpo showing consistent form, Jota has slipped down the pecking order.

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His fitness issues have frustrated some fans, despite recognition of his finishing skills, second only to the formidable Mohamed Salah. Slot, known for his high standards, is pushing for more from the 28-year-old as the team faces a busy schedule.

Jota's performance in the Carabao Cup semi-final was lacklustre, his first start since the 2-1 victory over Chelsea nearly three months ago. On the right flank, Salah remained sharp, but Jota's sloppy play during a counter-attack left Slot fuming.

Diogo Jota enraged Liverpool boss Arne Slot with a sloppy pass (Image: Getty) SUBSCRIBE Invalid email

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The forward's failed attempt at a first-time pass to Kostas Tsimikas resulted in a goal kick for Tottenham.

Slot was visibly livid, throwing his arms up in frustration and pacing his technical area before turning to vent his anger at his Liverpool coaching staff. Jota's repeated loss of possession was a stark contrast to the slick, controlled, counter-attacking football we've come to expect from Liverpool this season, explaining Slot's displeasure.

However, his outburst seemed to have an impact as Jota improved his game, taking better care of the ball and posing a greater threat against Tottenham's makeshift defence. It seems he's at a crossroads in his Liverpool career with his current contract set to expire in 2027 and no extension in sight.

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Darwin Nunez, who replaced Jota in the 60th minute, has been relegated to a minor role, while even Luis Diaz hasn't seen as much playtime as he'd like this season. Then there are Federico Chiesa and Harvey Elliott, both eager to reclaim their spots.

While Slot appreciates and rates Jota, if the latter wants to be the first choice, he needs to rediscover his top form. His underwhelming performance this season won't cut it, especially as Liverpool will need him more than ever in the second leg.

Spurs went on to win through Lucas Bergvall's 86th-minute goal. It came just minutes after the Swedish teenager escaped a second yellow card which enraged Liverpool.