Liverpool manager Arne Slot is sure that Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk are determined to succeed and win, despite rumors of them leaving the club.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot is confident that Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk both have the ‘hunger to win’ at Liverpool.

Both players only have one year left on their existing deals at Anfield, with Saudi Pro League clubs reportedly ready to lure the duo to the Middle East.

However, Slot had no concerns about their desire to lift more trophies on Merseyside when addressing the media in his unveiling as manager.

His first match in charge comes against Ipswich Town at Portman Road on Saturday, August 16, live on TNT Sports and discovery+

“I think in general every top player wants to win. I am hoping Virgil wants to win the Euros first, and then when he comes back after a few days of holidays, he will want to win like all players,” Slot said.

“They have the hunger to win. If you don’t have that, you’re not playing for a club like Liverpool.”

Slot was also quizzed on where he plans to deploy both Cody Gakpo and Trent Alexander-Arnold in his team, with the pair experiencing contrasting fortunes at Euro 2024.

“I don’t have an opinion about what their best position would be at their countries because that depends on what other players they have. You cannot judge a player on their own,” Slot explained.

“It’s always a team effort. But I do have my opinion about where they’re going to play here. But if you don’t mind, I’m going to talk to them about that first and work with them first before telling you.

“I am hoping he [Gakpo] will step up even more. We are hoping and expecting him to do even better. He has been impressive and had a good tournament so far.”

The Dutchman also assessed the task facing him in replacing Jurgen Klopp, and says his focus to build on the foundations left by the legendary former boss.

“You can look at it both ways,” he added.

“Big shoes to fill but also inheriting a squad and a team of winning culture. You want to work at a club with good players and the opportunity to win something, which Liverpool have shown.”