FIFA has just delivered disappointing news for the officials and referees of the Liverpool vs. Chelsea match, criticizing their failure to issue a red card to a Chelsea defender for a crucial last-man tackle. This decision differs from a comparable incident in a match against Arsenal, where a red card was awarded.

Arne Slot’s response to the disputed free kick given against Darwin Nunez during a recent match attracted significant attention, but there was another incident that seemed to frustrate the head coach even more. This occurred when fourth official Craig Pawson was about to announce seven minutes of added time while Slot’s team faced Chelsea. Cameras captured the Dutch coach’s clear annoyance at the call, with him visibly sighing and shaking his head in disbelief as the match approached its end.

Despite these frustrations with the refereeing, Slot had plenty to be pleased about regarding his team’s overall display against Chelsea. Many fans and analysts anticipated considerable difficulties after Jurgen Klopp’s departure, yet Slot has thus far overseen a remarkable period of success. The team’s performances under his management have been strong, with only one setback against Nottingham Forest. Excluding that loss, Slot’s squad has been playing impressive football, fostering optimism among fans for the season ahead.

The win over Chelsea, particularly following the challenges posed by the international break, marked a significant achievement. Chelsea is always a formidable opponent, and claiming three points against them was vital for maintaining the team’s position at the top of the Premier League for another week. Curtis Jones’ goal was particularly gratifying, showcasing quality that sealed the hard-fought victory. Slot’s tactical choices and the team’s resilience under his guidance are starting to yield positive results, with the players responding well to his methods.

Looking forward, the challenges will continue for the revamped Reds. They are preparing to begin their Champions League campaign soon, adding more pressure to their packed schedule. Additionally, a crucial Premier League match awaits as they prepare to visit the Emirates Stadium to face Arsenal. This upcoming game will provide another chance to assess the team’s title prospects, especially given Arsenal’s ambitions this season.

Overall, Slot’s time in charge has exceeded expectations, with his team producing high-quality performances and remaining competitive among the league leaders. While some refereeing decisions may not have favored him, Slot can take satisfaction in his team’s consistency and ability to perform in critical moments. Early indications suggest that the Reds, under Slot’s guidance, could be serious title contenders this season.