Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez were absent due to injury, while Alisson Becker was in Brazil to support his wife after her surgery. Captain Virgil van Dijk was also missing, and Slot explained the reasons behind their absences.

"Almost all of them are fit or have remained fit," Slot said. "Unfortunately, Virgil is unwell today. We will miss Alisson, Joe Gomez is not available, and Conor Bradley is also not there."

Despite the absences, Slot is optimistic about the team's fitness and the integration of new signings. He is looking forward to the Community Shield match against Crystal Palace. Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo's goals were the difference in the team's easy victory against Athletic Bilbao.

However, the absence of key players like Bradley, Van Dijk, and Alisson might affect the team's performance on Sunday. Slot is concerned about the team's defense and the potential threats from Palace's attack.

When asked if the four absentees will be fit enough to start the game, Slot replied, "Virgil probably not. Joe Gomez and Conor Bradley, it's going to be close. Alisson will be back in time as well."