An examination of Arne Slot's remarks during the post-match press conference following Liverpool's Champions League elimination by Paris St-Germain reveals the manager's concerns about his team's inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Despite creating 1.92 Expected Goals against the European champions, Liverpool failed to score, a trend that has persisted throughout the season. Slot expressed his disappointment, stating, "Unfortunately, it's one of the many examples of this season where we weren't able to score from the many chances we had." Liverpool's underperformance in terms of xG is evident in the Champions League, with the team scoring 24 goals from 27.8xG, the largest underperformance among quarter-finalists. However, their xG conversion rate in the Premier League is less damning, with a goals total only 0.65 below their xG total.
The team's struggles with converting big chances are a significant concern, with Liverpool missing 59 of 86 clear-cut openings in the top flight. Players like Curtis Jones, Florian Wirtz, and Alexis Mac Allister have underperformed their individual xG totals, while Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk have also been guilty of missing crucial chances. The absence of key players due to injuries, including Alexander Isak, has further exacerbated the problem.
Slot's complaints about VAR decisions also continue, with the manager feeling that his team has been unfairly treated by the officials. With Liverpool's Champions League exit, the pressure is on Slot to secure a top-five finish in the league and ensure a Champions League place for next season.
Despite the challenges, Slot remains optimistic about the team's future, citing the quality of young players like Ryan Gravenberch, Ekitike, Wirtz, and Rio Ngumoha.