In the current football season, Liverpool has faced unexpected challenges from teams like Nottingham Forest, Fulham, and Manchester United. Despite the formidable reputation of the Merseyside club, these teams have managed to either defeat or draw against Liverpool by exploiting a tactical blueprint that seems to target a specific vulnerability. By focusing their attacks on Liverpool's left flank and employing strategic balls over the top, these teams have pressured Liverpool in ways that have exposed defensive weaknesses.
Manchester United's recent 2-2 draw against Liverpool serves as a prime example of this tactical approach. Though initially predicted to be dominated by Liverpool, United's execution of their game plan proved effective against the opposition. A key strategy involved directing 54% of their attacking touches towards Trent Alexander-Arnold's sector of the field.
"Man Utd's front three pinned Liverpool and Fernandes gave Alexander-Arnold a real problem," – Jamie Carragher
The Red Devils' strategy paid off when Bruno Fernandes delivered an impeccable pass to Lisandro Martinez, leading to United's first goal. This approach has highlighted Liverpool's ongoing struggle with imbalanced defense and their difficulty in handling a No. 10 player who operates between the lines.
Additionally, both Fulham and Manchester United have forced Liverpool deeper into their own half, compelling them to abandon their usual high-pressing game. This tactic not only disrupted Liverpool's rhythm but also dragged players out of position, further exposing their defensive frailties. A notable inconsistency for Liverpool has been their right-sided center-half position, with players like Ibrahima Konate, Joe Gomez, Jarell Quansah, and Ryan Gravenberch all vying for the spot.
The tactical consistency among Nottingham Forest, Fulham, and Manchester United extends to capitalizing on Liverpool's vulnerabilities at Anfield. All six of the last goals conceded by Liverpool at home have originated from plays down their left side. This recurrent issue has often left Trent Alexander-Arnold in a difficult position.
"Alexander-Arnold was constantly caught between Fernandes and the wide wing-back Dalot," – Jamie Carragher
Liverpool's right-hand side has been particularly leaky this season, making it a frequent target for opposition attacks. Leicester City's decision to allow Liverpool to dominate possession in their half resulted in a 3-1 victory for Liverpool. In contrast, Fulham took advantage of this weakness by orchestrating their opener from the left flank. Harry Wilson initiated the play, passing to Alex Iwobi, who then set up Antonee Robinson for an overlapping run.
Despite these setbacks, Liverpool has demonstrated resilience by recovering 13 points from losing positions in the Premier League this term. They have trailed in four of their last six matches but have managed to claw back significant points through sheer determination and attacking prowess.
"United had a very good game plan; no build up, go long and don't give us a chance to press high. It's more about the opponents' plan whenever we drop points." – Arne Slot
Liverpool's electric front line has often managed to neutralize their defensive shortcomings, yet it hasn't always been sufficient to secure victories. The strategic targeting of weaknesses by teams like Manchester United highlights a need for Liverpool to address these areas if they are to maintain their competitive edge.
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