Slot made some tactical decisions during the match, leaving star player Mohamed Salah on the bench for the third consecutive game and not introducing him as a substitute. He also chose to start French international Ekitike over club record signing Alexander Isak. Slot refused to comment on the future of Salah, who will leave for the Africa Cup of Nations after the next two matches.

Slot stated that he chose not to bring Salah on because he thought different players were needed to secure the win against Leeds. He acknowledged that the team has to accept their current situation and focus on their upcoming matches against Inter and Brighton.