Curtis Jones and Liverpool’s Tactical Setup for the PSG Challenge | OneFootball

Curtis Jones: Liverpool’s Tactical Ace in Arne Slot’s System

Liverpool’s tactical evolution under Arne Slot has been a topic of keen discussion, and few players embody this shift better than Curtis Jones. The 23-year-old midfielder has grown into an integral figure for the Reds, offering tactical flexibility, composure on the ball, and a crucial balance between attacking intent and defensive stability.

In the latest episode of Stat Me Up, hosted by Dave Davis and featuring Dr Phil Barter, the pair dissected Liverpool’s upcoming Champions League clash against PSG. Amidst discussions of XG, tactical flexibility, and defensive vulnerabilities, Jones emerged as a key figure in how Liverpool may set up against elite opposition.

Curtis Jones: A Midfield Linchpin in Liverpool’s System

Curtis Jones has become a player Slot can rely on in big games. As Phil Barter pointed out, “He could quite easily drop in and play next to Dom,” referring to Dominik Szoboszlai. This adaptability allows Liverpool to switch between different midfield structures, whether that’s a box midfield or a more traditional three-man setup.

When comparing Jones to potential midfield opposition, Barter noted that PSG’s Warren Zaire-Emery is statistically impressive but lacks the same dominant presence: “Defensively, I thought he blocked well and he tackles well… but Curtis is more dominant in the attacking phase.” This suggests that if Liverpool can impose themselves in midfield, Jones could be a crucial figure in dictating play.

The Tactical Battle: Box Midfield or Trade Punches?

One of the most intriguing questions ahead of the PSG fixture is how Liverpool will approach the game tactically. Slot has shown willingness to adapt depending on the opponent, as Davis highlighted: “We talked about that City game where he’ll play all four midfielders, shut the game down, only have 34% possession but dominate still.”

Against a PSG side that concedes a high number of chances, the debate is whether Liverpool will go toe-to-toe or adopt a more cautious approach. Barter speculated that Jones could be vital if Liverpool opt for a box midfield setup: “If we play four in there, this kid (Zaire-Emery) and his partner might get absolutely monstered.” The implication is clear—Liverpool have the physicality and technical ability in midfield to overwhelm PSG’s less battle-hardened core.

The Curtis Jones Factor: Control, Pressing, and Transition Play

Jones’ ability to dictate tempo while also providing an attacking threat is an asset in games of this magnitude. Barter’s analysis highlighted the importance of pressing and transition play: “Maybe that’ll be in his (Slot’s) thinking about, let’s try and put PSG under pressure—we can deal with it better than they can.”

This aligns with Jones’ role in previous high-intensity matches, where his composure in tight spaces allows Liverpool to sustain pressure and recycle possession effectively. His knack for finding space and linking up play with the attack could be crucial, especially if Liverpool intend to press PSG’s deeper-lying midfielders.

Can Jones Be the Key Against PSG?

While much of the discussion around Liverpool’s midfield has focused on Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister, Curtis Jones’ contributions are equally important. Whether operating in a disciplined midfield four or being given the freedom to break forward, he provides an essential balance.

With Barter’s assessment that Liverpool’s tactical approach will likely exploit PSG’s midfield weaknesses, Jones could be a decisive figure in ensuring Liverpool maintain control. His ability to retain possession, press intelligently, and provide attacking impetus might be what separates Liverpool from PSG in this high-stakes European clash.

As the Reds prepare for another big European night, Curtis Jones might just be the player who defines the midfield battle.