‘It is not the only club’ – Liverpool boss Arne Slot calls out three Premier League rivals’ spending in response to Erling Haaland’s new ten-year contract

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has sparked a fresh debate on the Premier League’s financial landscape after highlighting the extravagant spending of rivals Manchester City, Chelsea, and Manchester United. Slot’s remarks came in response to Manchester City’s eye-catching decision to extend Erling Haaland’s contract by a further ten years, reportedly valued at a staggering £500,000 per week.

The deal, which cements Haaland’s status as one of the world’s highest-paid players, has raised questions about the growing financial disparity in the league. While acknowledging City’s financial might, Slot was quick to point out that they are not the sole culprits of lavish spending. “It is not the only club,” Slot stated, directing attention to Chelsea and Manchester United, whose spending has also reshaped the competitive dynamics of English football.

Slot’s observations are backed by data. Since 2016, Chelsea has led the Premier League in spending with a jaw-dropping £2.04 billion investment in transfers. Manchester City and Manchester United trail slightly behind, having spent approximately £1.5 billion each over the same period. By contrast, Liverpool’s more frugal approach has seen them invest £940 million—a figure dwarfed by their rivals but one that Slot insists reflects a sustainable and strategic philosophy.

The Liverpool manager, however, refused to downplay the challenge posed by such spending power. “These clubs operate on a different financial level,” he admitted. “But we believe in the quality and depth of our squad. It’s not about matching them pound for pound; it’s about building a team that can compete through unity and resilience.”

Slot also emphasized that Liverpool’s measured spending has been paired with a focus on developing talent. The club’s commitment to nurturing young players and making astute signings has been a hallmark of their recent success. Players like Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané, and Trent Alexander-Arnold have all been instrumental in Liverpool’s rise under Jürgen Klopp, a tradition Slot is keen to continue.

Despite the financial disparity, Slot remains confident in his team’s ability to challenge the Premier League’s elite. “Football is not just about money,” he said. “It’s about heart, strategy, and the willingness to fight for every point. We’ve shown that before, and we’ll show it again.”

Haaland’s contract extension has nevertheless reignited debates about financial fairness in football. With a weekly wage that eclipses many clubs’ annual budgets, the Norwegian striker’s deal underscores the widening gulf between the league’s wealthiest teams and their competitors. Critics argue that such spending creates an uneven playing field, while proponents claim it reflects the global appeal and commercial success of the Premier League.

Slot acknowledged the allure of such deals but warned of the risks they carry. “When clubs prioritize spending over sustainability, they risk losing sight of what football is truly about,” he said. “At Liverpool, we focus on long-term growth, not quick fixes.”

The Liverpool boss also addressed concerns about the impact of financial inequality on competition. He highlighted the importance of maintaining balance in the league, ensuring that smaller clubs are not left behind. “The Premier League is loved because of its unpredictability,” he noted. “We must preserve that.”

While Liverpool’s spending has been comparatively modest, Slot’s tenure has seen the club maintain its status as a top-four contender. The manager credited this to the club’s unwavering commitment to its values and its ability to adapt in an ever-changing football landscape.

In addition to challenging their rivals on the pitch, Liverpool is also investing off it. The club’s plans to expand Anfield and improve its training facilities reflect a broader strategy to remain competitive without relying solely on big-money transfers.

Slot’s comments have also sparked broader discussions about financial regulations in football. Calls for stricter enforcement of Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules have grown louder, with many arguing that the current system allows wealthier clubs to dominate unchecked.

Despite the challenges, Slot remains optimistic about Liverpool’s future. “We have a squad full of talent and ambition,” he said. “The journey ahead won’t be easy, but we’re ready to face it together.”

As the debate over spending in the Premier League continues, Slot’s remarks serve as a reminder that football is as much about strategy and spirit as it is about financial power. For Liverpool, the road to success may not be paved with record-breaking contracts, but Slot is determined to ensure it leads to glory nonetheless.

In the meantime, fans will be watching closely to see how Liverpool fares against its big-spending rivals. With the Premier League’s unpredictable nature, Slot’s faith in his team’s abilities could yet prove to be well-placed. For now, one thing is certain: the financial battles off the pitch are as intense as the games on it.