Opinion: Will Liverpool’s Weakness on the Right Help Arsenal’s Title Challenge?

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·14 August 2025

Opinion: Will Liverpool’s Weakness on the Right Help Arsenal’s Title Challenge?

Given Liverpool’s heavy summer spending, many argue they should be the team to beat this season.

It is remarkable how the Reds have strengthened Arne Slot’s title-winning squad, already one of the strongest in the league last term. On paper, these new additions should make Liverpool the Premier League’s most formidable outfit.

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But Paul Merson believes there is a glaring weakness rivals can exploit. Speaking days after Liverpool’s Community Shield clash with Crystal Palace, Merson highlighted the right-hand side as a concern.

Frimpong is not Trent, and Salah could suffer

Merson claims Mohamed Salah looked a shadow of his former self, suggesting the absence of Trent Alexander-Arnold could hinder him. He also questioned Jeremie Frimpong’s suitability for Liverpool.

As per The Mirror, the ex-Gunner said:

“It was a bit of a worrying performance from Salah at Wembley. I don’t think I’ve seen a player play that badly before in a football match.

“One thing that might be difficult for him this season is playing in front of Jeremie Frimpong. Compared to Trent Alexander-Arnold, he’s more like an attacking winger.”

Merson added:

“With Trent, Salah could make any run, and he’d be picked out. Trent would also attract defenders, leaving Salah more space. Trent could destroy you himself.

“Frimpong’s a good player, but he’s not a destroyer. He plays so far forward that he’s not a natural defender.

“Trent wasn’t either, but the same thing applies, really. I think Ibrahima Konaté could be too exposed. There’s a major problem down that side of the pitch, even more so than last season.”

Jeremie FRIMPONG (MaxPPP TagID: dpaphotosfive947752.jpg) [Photo via MaxPPP]

Can Liverpool cope if Salah dips?

Salah single-handedly carried Liverpool to their 20th league title last season. But if the Egyptian King fails to replicate that form, Liverpool could face a frustrating campaign.

A less threatening Liverpool and a vulnerable defence should give other title hopefuls a better shot at glory. For Mikel Arteta and his side, this could be the opportunity they have been waiting for – a boost to their title ambitions.

If Arsenal live up to expectations after six impactful signings this summer, potentially seven with Eberechi Eze still very much still on Arsenal’s radar, they should be well placed to either set the pace or capitalise on any slip-ups from their rivals.

Did you watch the Community Shield clash between Liverpool & Crystal Palace?

Do you think Merson has a point?

Daniel O

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