How Liverpool’s Midfield Has Evolved Under Arne Slot – Looking Deeper | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Midfield is Quietly Prolific – Here’s Why It Matters

Liverpool’s forwards might dominate the headlines, but the midfield is quietly matching them in importance, both creatively and offensively. Mohamed Salah, Luis Diaz, and Cody Gakpo understandably steal the show with their goal-scoring prowess this season, racking up 19, 11, and 10 goals respectively. But beneath this front-line firepower lies a midfield engine room that has significantly contributed to Liverpool’s attacking success.

Curtis Jones, Alexis Mac Allister, and Dominik Szoboszlai are proving indispensable, adding both goals and assists from midfield to ensure Liverpool remains competitive across all fronts.

Midfield Output That Demands Recognition

Curtis Jones might not be the first name fans think of when it comes to Liverpool’s attacking contributions, but his numbers tell a different story. In just 1,169 minutes across all competitions this season, Jones has registered 3 goals and 4 assists, including a crucial strike to put Liverpool ahead against Leicester. His ability to step up in pivotal moments highlights his growing importance to Arne Slot’s system.

Photo: IMAGO

Meanwhile, Alexis Mac Allister has been such an important cog this season. The Argentine World Cup winner has contributed 3 goals and 2 assists in 1,717 minutes of football. His two assists against Leicester serve as a reminder of his creative flair and vision, qualities that make him a key figure in Liverpool’s build-up play. Whether threading defence-splitting passes or delivering pinpoint set-pieces, Mac Allister combines the elements of a midfield workhorse with a creative powerhouse.

Then there’s Dominik Szoboszlai, whose dynamic performances have captured the imagination of the Kop. With 3 goals and 4 assists in 1,583 minutes, the Hungarian international has added a level of unpredictability and technical brilliance to Liverpool’s midfield. His knack for long-range strikes and driving runs into the box has made him a consistent threat, as well as a fan favourite in his debut season. We haven’t seen that too often this campaign, but we know how important he is to this system.

Collectively, these three midfielders have delivered 9 goals and 10 assists in all competitions, a staggering output for players who also shoulder defensive and transitional responsibilities.

Why This Matters Beyond Numbers

While the statistics are impressive, the impact of Liverpool’s midfield extends far beyond the numbers. Each player brings a unique skill set that complements the team’s overall structure. Jones’ ability to arrive late in the box, Mac Allister’s eye for a defence-splitting pass, and Szoboszlai’s creativity and shooting range ensure Liverpool’s attack isn’t reliant solely on its forwards.

Photo: IMAGO

Even players like Harvey Elliott, who has scored once this season, bring energy and positional intelligence that allow others to shine. Ryan Gravenberch, though not contributing significantly to goals or assists, has added defensive solidity and composure, ensuring balance in a midfield that often prioritises attacking contributions.

The Bigger Picture for Liverpool

It’s no surprise that Salah’s 19 goals this season lead the team’s output, but the midfield’s contributions have been equally vital in making Liverpool’s attack one of the most versatile in the league. With Diaz and Gakpo adding 11 and 10 goals respectively, the forwards may be the primary headline makers, but the midfield ensures Liverpool remains unpredictable. The layers of attacking threats created by Jones, Mac Allister, and Szoboszlai keep opposing defences guessing.

Photo: IMAGO

This balance between the forwards and midfield has allowed Liverpool to thrive across competitions. The midfielders’ ability to contribute in the final third while maintaining control in transitions makes the team more well-rounded and difficult to counter.

Sustaining the Standard

For Liverpool to achieve their ambitions this season, the midfield must maintain its high standards. Goals from midfielders, along with creative assists and defensive stability, will be critical as the season progresses. Titles and trophies are rarely won by just the forwards; they require contributions from every department, and Liverpool’s midfield is delivering exactly that.

While Salah, Diaz, and Gakpo remain the stars of the show, it’s crucial not to overlook the midfield trio’s importance. Curtis Jones, Alexis Mac Allister, and Dominik Szoboszlai are proving that Liverpool’s success is built on more than just its forwards. Together, they are the unsung heroes ensuring Liverpool’s attack remains a multi-faceted and formidable force.