Arne Slot Told to Make Major Decision on ‘Struggling’ Liverpool Star | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Winning Run Masks Underlying Questions for Arne Slot

Liverpool may be perfect on paper at the start of their Premier League title defence, but performances have raised as many concerns as they have delivered points. Arne Slot’s side have won every match so far, yet their defensive structure and individual displays are far from convincing.

The Reds have looked vulnerable against counter attacks and set pieces, two areas that Slot will need to address quickly if Liverpool are to retain their crown. Despite the attacking flair and depth at his disposal, too many chances are being offered to opponents.

Florian Wirtz and the Positional Debate

One player who has found himself under scrutiny is Florian Wirtz, Liverpool’s £116m summer signing. The 22-year-old German was expected to be a transformative presence, yet his impact has been muted. He has not been poor, but he has not dictated games as supporters might have hoped.

Former Liverpool defender Steve Nicol has been particularly direct in his assessment. Speaking to ESPN, he argued that Wirtz is being deployed in the wrong role.

“He may have to find a different spot for this guy. Right now, he isn’t getting on the ball, which is what he was brought in to do, but from a defensive point of view there is no question that Liverpool are struggling big time,” Nicol said.

Photo: IMAGO

He added that Slot might be forced into a tactical reshuffle: “So, he may have to move him out wide and use Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Gravenberch as the midfield three, because right now the back four cannot defend as a unit. So they might have to change the way they play, move Wirtz out to a wide area in my opinion, but then at the same time, Gakpo doesn’t deserve to be dropped. Are you going to drop Gakpo just because you’ve paid £100m for Florian Wirtz? It’s a tough decision.”

Liverpool’s Heavy Investment Under Pressure

Liverpool invested close to £300m this summer, strengthening almost every department. Hugo Ekitike has perhaps been the most settled among the newcomers, but others are still adapting to Slot’s system. That level of expenditure brings scrutiny and fans naturally expect immediate results.

For Wirtz, his age and potential should provide some perspective. At just 22, he is still developing and adjusting to the pace of the Premier League. The intensity, physicality and tactical demands differ from the Bundesliga and even elite players often require time to adjust.

Patience May be the Key

The temptation is to judge quickly, but Wirtz has already offered glimpses of the quality that made Liverpool invest so heavily. His ability to find pockets of space, his technical balance and his eye for a pass are evident. Once he finds rhythm and confidence, he has the tools to become central to Slot’s plans.

For now, the manager faces a balancing act. Slot must refine Liverpool’s defensive organisation while also finding the best way to unlock Wirtz’s talent without disrupting other in-form players. If Liverpool can achieve that equilibrium, their prospects of back-to-back Premier League titles will strengthen.