Liverpool Must Address This Issue Despite Arne Slot’s Brilliant Start – Opinion | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Stellar Form Under Arne Slot Has a Defensive Flaw to Address

Liverpool fans have much to celebrate under Arne Slot’s tenure, as recent results indicate an upward trajectory. However, as joyous as the attacking prowess and victories may seem, there’s a recent and now lingering defensive concern that threatens to undermine their progress. Liverpool’s tendency to concede first, coupled with their inability to keep clean sheets in the last month or so, is an issue that the management and players are surely aware of.

Conceding First is a Persistent Issue

On 26th December, Liverpool defeated Leicester City 3-1, but once again, they fell behind early in the match. This pattern has become an unsettling hallmark of their recent form. Slot himself admitted, “There was only one minute I wasn’t happy with, and that was the minute we conceded a goal.” These moments can prove costly, and it’s evident that Liverpool needs to be more resolute in their defensive approach from the start of games.

Photo: IMAGO

A similar scenario unfolded on 22nd December against Tottenham Hotspur. While Liverpool emerged victorious in an exhilarating 6-3 triumph, conceding three goals highlighted defensive lapses that could be punished more severely by stronger opposition. Their last clean sheet came all the way back on 10th December in a 1-0 win against Girona during the UEFA Champions League group stage. Since then, every opponent has found a way through.

Defensive Record Slips Behind Arsenal

Liverpool’s defensive issues are not just visible in individual games but also reflected in the Premier League standings. Arsenal, with only 16 goals conceded in 17 games, now officially boasts the league’s best defensive record. In comparison, Liverpool has let in 17 goals in ne less match, which leaves room for improvement if they aim to reclaim their status as the league’s most balanced team. Remember, the goals against column was outstripping everyone nit that long ago. These marginal differences could prove decisive as the season progresses.

Arne Slot’s High Standards and Andy Robertson’s Insight

Liverpool’s success under Slot has largely been attributed to the Dutchman’s relentless pursuit of perfection. As Andy Robertson remarked after the Leicester game, “The manager demands more. I don’t think we are quite perfect in his eyes. That’s what we want.” This insight offers a glimpse into Slot’s mentality. He is unlikely to settle for defensive frailties, knowing that even Liverpool’s potent attack won’t always be able to dig them out of trouble.

Photo: IMAGO

The recent fixtures highlight this precarious balance. Against Fulham on 14th December, Liverpool were a goal down before the red card and were held to a 2-2 draw. In the League Cup quarter-finals on 18th December, Southampton found a way past Liverpool’s defence, although the Reds ultimately triumphed 2-1 and others will say this one doesn’t really count. The need for clean sheets is evident, and Robertson’s comments suggest Slot will be unyielding in addressing this.

Finding the Solution

While Liverpool has delivered an impressive run of results, including eight wins from their last ten matches in all competitions, the defensive vulnerabilities cannot be ignored. Teams such as Arsenal have shown that tight defensive discipline is a cornerstone of sustained success. For Liverpool, tightening up at the back will not only bolster their title hopes but also enhance their confidence in controlling games.

Slot’s approach will likely involve more focus on organisation and discipline in defensive transitions. As Liverpool continues to thrive under his management, resolving these issues could elevate them to an even higher level. Fans will undoubtedly hope that the defensive adjustments come sooner rather than later, as they push for silverware across multiple fronts. If you start getting back to clean sheets, everything else will fall into place and Slot will be fully aware if this.