New Liverpool FC Manager Arne Slot is facing pivotal decisions regarding his starting XI. The impending home match against Brentford only heaps more pressure onto his choices. This follows a commanding 5-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt, where Slot implemented a revised formation and strategy that may influence his choices moving forward.
In a dramatic and controversial departure from his usual tactics, Slot decided to start star forward Mohamed Salah on the bench against Frankfurt. Instead, he partnered Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike as his lead attackers in a 4-2-2-2 system. The tactical switch worked a treat immediately, with the duo dictating a master class in the first 45 minutes. Isak then picked up a different groin injury, putting him in doubt to even play in their next game.
Slot’s decision to start Ekitike as Liverpool’s primary striker reflects a shift in the team’s dynamics. He’s already proven himself as their first-choice No. 9, especially given Isak’s recent injury troubles. Former professional football player and current U.K. has suggested that Salah does not deserve an automatic starting spot, which points toward a culture change coming in the team’s locker room in the near future.
Slot has proven to be an absentee in the midfield. Curtis Jones and Alexis Mac Allister battling tooth and nail for a chance to line up alongside Dominik Szoboszlai. Ryan Gravenberch The Dutchman’s return is fitness dependent. If he does become available for selection, that could make things more complicated still. After all, Florian Wirtz just pulled off a phenomenal performance against Frankfurt. If Reyes continues to perform he’ll likely lock down his regular role in the lineup.
On that defensive side of things, a surprise move left Andy Robertson still pretty safe at left-back. But on the competition is getting fierce on the right flank. Jeremie Frimpong is tending to an injury as well. That opens the door for Milos Kerkez to push for a right-back position, further complicating Slot’s selection process.
It’s unclear where Cody Gakpo fits in on the flanks. This lack of clarity can certainly impact the way Slot goes about his team selection for Brentford. The combination of injuries and performances from other players has put the manager in a position where he still has many options to consider.
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