Lynch: The Tactical Changes Slot Has Made to Klopp’s Liverpool | OneFootball

Arne Slot’s Liverpool: Tactical Evolution After Klopp Era

Liverpool’s season under Arne Slot has shown significant tactical shifts, creating a buzz across the football community. With Liverpool sitting five points clear at the top of the Premier League, the Dutch manager’s methods are proving effective. David Lynch, on his podcast, delves into these intriguing adjustments, comparing them with the previous system under Jurgen Klopp. This article draws on Lynch’s insights, particularly focusing on Liverpool’s defensive solidity, formation changes, and refined attacking strategies.

Defensive Solidity with Slot’s Approach

One of Slot’s standout achievements is Liverpool’s defensive record, with only six goals conceded in 11 league matches. “If they continue at this rate, they’ll concede just 20 goals, which would be one of the best records in Premier League history,” Lynch remarks. He highlights that Liverpool’s expected goals against (xGA) sits at 0.85 per match, down from 1.2 under Klopp’s final season. This represents a considerable improvement in limiting the opposition’s goal-scoring opportunities.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot’s defensive philosophy diverges significantly from Klopp’s high-intensity pressing game. Under Klopp, Liverpool were one of the most aggressive high-pressing teams, “in the 92nd percentile for high pressing,” according to Lynch. By contrast, Slot’s Liverpool ranks 68th, illustrating a more cautious, structured approach. “They defend deeper and prioritise blocking shots over winning the ball high up the pitch,” Lynch points out. This shift not only makes Liverpool harder to break down but also conserves energy for other aspects of play.

Photo: IMAGO

The 4-2-3-1 Formation: Slot’s Tactical Signature

Slot’s Liverpool has veered from the rigid 4-3-3 formation favoured by Klopp. Lynch emphasises this tactical shift, noting, “We’re seeing a 4-2-3-1 formation, even though Slot initially downplayed it.” With two defensive midfielders, Liverpool’s setup now provides greater stability in front of the backline. This midfield pairing, usually comprising Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch, has been pivotal in shielding Liverpool’s defence and allowing more width in attacking positions.

A notable change is the deployment of Mohamed Salah in wider starting positions, different from his “inside forward” role under Klopp. “Slot’s happy to have Salah start out wider,” Lynch observes, adding that this allows Liverpool to stretch the field and opens up space centrally for other attacking players. This subtle adjustment has impacted Liverpool’s attacking approach, contributing to a refreshed offensive dynamic under Slot.

Attacking Efficiency and Selectivity in Shot-Taking

Slot’s Liverpool, while less prolific in terms of the number of shots taken, is demonstrating enhanced finishing efficiency. Comparing this season’s performance with Klopp’s previous style, Lynch explains, “Liverpool took 196 shots in their first 11 games last season; this season, it’s only 153.” This reduction in shot volume doesn’t imply a weaker attack but rather a more selective, calculated approach. Slot’s philosophy favours fewer, higher-quality shots, in contrast to Klopp’s high-volume shot strategy.

Lynch underscores this with data on shot distance: “Last season, Liverpool averaged 17.2 yards from goal on their shots, ranking among the highest in the league.” This season, Slot’s team averages 16 yards, positioning them as more selective and closer to goal when shooting. The result? Liverpool remains the third-highest scoring team this season, trailing only Tottenham by two goals, despite fewer shots.

Counterattacking as a Key Weapon

Interestingly, Lynch identifies an increase in counterattacks under Slot. “This was a Klopp trademark,” Lynch states, yet Slot’s Liverpool has embraced the counterattack more effectively. Against Aston Villa, Liverpool executed counterattacks with deadly precision, contributing to their goal tally and demonstrating Slot’s adaptability in utilising Klopp’s counterattacking blueprint while making it his own. This blend of quick transitions and calculated attacking plays has made Liverpool’s offence versatile and unpredictable.

Slot’s Liverpool: A Balanced Evolution

As Lynch summarises, “We’re seeing Liverpool defending deeper but more solidly than they were under Klopp, with a more selective approach to shooting.” Slot’s style introduces a balance between defence and attack, reflecting an evolution from Klopp’s “heavy metal” football to a more methodical yet effective style. Slot’s Liverpool appears well-prepared to maintain their top-flight standing, with tactical changes proving successful both defensively and offensively.