As Liverpool go against the Premier League trend
In the summer of 2025, Liverpool restructured their squad with players with rich technique, who tend to control the ball in accordance with Arne Slot's philosophy. However, the problem is that while Liverpool have developed in a technical direction, the rest of the tournament has returned to a direct, strong and ball-headed style of play.
Mid-table teams are now successful thanks to long balls, using their physical strength and the ability to take advantage of set pieces, factors Liverpool currently do not have. They are trying to play football for the future in an environment that has returned to the past.
Arne Slot and the personnel problem
The Dutch strategist is still steadfast in his philosophy of ball control and high-altitude pressing, but recent attempts have failed. Except for the victory over Frankfurt, when he switched to a 4-4-2 formation, all other changes made the team more unstable.
More worryingly, in the last 5 defeats, Liverpool conceded in the first 15 minutes, respectively in the 9th, 16th, 14th, 2nd and 5th minutes. Those early goals caused all tactical plans to collapse from the start, especially when the opponent actively retreated deep and counterattacked directly. When you are always left alone early, no system can work smoothly.
Back to the basics
In the midst of a crisis, sometimes the solution does not lie in complex ideas, it is just in returning to stability. Liverpool need experienced players who know how to keep the rhythm and revive the fighting spirit, which has made them strong under Jurgen Klopp.
The defense is the place that needs to be adjusted first. Milos Kerkez has been inconsistent and often left Virgil van Dijk passive when covering. Andy Robertson, despite his declining form, is still a symbol of fighting spirit and stability. Bringing him back to the starting lineup could help the defense regain balance.
On the right flank, Joe Gomez could be a reliable option. Although Ibrahima Konate has been inconsistent in his performances, the Gomez - Konate pair can provide better solidity and aerial combat than Conor Bradley or Jeremie Frimpong (under injury). The only risk is Gomez's injury history, but at the moment Liverpool do not have many options.
Rehabilitation of mid-line: Physical strength, mobility
Curtis Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai are two rare bright spots in a series of disappointing matches. If Jones recovers from a groin injury in time, they will definitely be there. Ryan Gravenberch, who was absent from the defeat to Brentford, also needs to return to the starting lineup. The trio not only have technique, they also have good physique that helps Liverpool compete more strongly in midfield, something they have lost since the beginning of the season.
In contrast, Alexis Mac Allister is declining in both form and fitness. Although he was a mainstay last season, he is no longer competitive. Slot needs to temporarily put patience and efficiency first.
The problem of the attack between performance and physique
With Cody Gakpo, Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike, Mohamed Salah, Florian Wirtz and Federico Chiesa, Liverpool have many attacking options but also many conflicts.
If you prioritize your physical strength and ability to compete, the Gakpo - Isak - Ekitike trio is the most reasonable choice. They are not outstanding in aerial combat but have created a necessary presence against the Premier League's physically strong defenses.
In contrast, Salah and Wirtz are the two most technical players who are declining in one-on-one matches. Salah has won just 24.6%, while Wirtz has won 33.3% of his challenges, making Slot uncomfortable as the team continues to race for fitness.
However, eliminating both was a risky decision. Salah has just scored to end the failed streak and could regain his form, while Wirtz is still the most creative player when Liverpool controlled the match.
4-4-2: Temporary structure to stabilize the system
Looking at the victory over Frankfurt, a flexible 4-4-2 formation is still the most likely choice. This system helps Liverpool keep a better distance, while taking advantage of the mobility of Gravenberch, Jones and Szoboszlai. If Jones is injured, Wirtz could take over as a right midfielder or move to the left wing to recreate the role he played for Leverkusen.
Against Aston Villa this weekend, Slot does not have much time to experiment. The most important thing is to choose a direction and stick with it. Because at this stage, Liverpool's problem is not only tactical, it is also determination, desire and the ability to react when pressured.
