Liverpool, under Arne Slot’s management, has hit a rough patch recently. The Dutch coach, who not long ago celebrated winning the English league title, now faces his first significant challenge. After a stellar start with seven consecutive victories, the team has suffered three defeats, losing matches against Crystal Palace, Galatasaray, and Chelsea.
Despite Liverpool’s impressive attacking options, the team struggles to create cohesive connections on the field. Slot has experimented with various lineups featuring Salah, Wirtz, Isak, Szoboszlai, Gakpo, and Ekitike, but none have yielded consistent success. An abundance of offensive talent seems to have disrupted the team’s fluidity and understanding during play.
During the summer, the club made record-breaking investments, spending nearly €482 million. The bulk of this amount was allocated to acquiring Isak, Wirtz, and Ekitike, totaling €360 million. However, the focus was almost entirely on bolstering the attack. Liverpool failed to secure Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace and still lacks adequate backup for Alexander-Arnold.
Slot has also taken bold tactical risks, such as deploying Szoboszlai in the right-back position. These decisions have often disrupted the team’s balance. Consequently, a side once hailed as nearly unstoppable now appears far less formidable.
Challenging weeks lie ahead for Liverpool. The team is set to face Manchester United in a high-stakes league match at Anfield, followed by Champions League clashes against Eintracht Frankfurt and Real Madrid.
These meetings will determine whether Arne Slot can manage the crisis and restore The Reds to their former glory.