Liverpool manager Arne Slot faces growing scrutiny this season, with his decision to continuously field Mohamed Salah emerging as a major tactical misstep. Once a decisive presence, Salah has drifted into the periphery in high-stakes matches, leaving questions over Slot’s judgment.
Since February, Liverpool have played eleven games against top-tier teams including Manchester City, Arsenal, and Paris Saint-Germain, losing seven of them. Salah featured in every match but failed to score and often appeared disengaged, highlighting his declining influence. His struggles are magnified against physically dominant opponents, where Liverpool now lack the intensity and robustness that once defined their midfield and attack.
The impact of Salah’s form extends beyond his personal output. Defenders like Conor Bradley and Ibrahima Konaté are forced into compromises, covering gaps left by Salah’s reduced effectiveness. Similarly, midfielders are overstretched, and creative talents like Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak are pressured to compensate for imbalances.
It is important to stress that Salah is not solely to blame. At 33, with over 700 career games, his reduced physicality and naturally attacking focus are understandable. However, Liverpool’s decision to retain him on a high-value contract while attempting a team rebuild has created structural issues. The squad now features multiple lightweight attackers with limited defensive contribution, leaving the team vulnerable against stronger, more physical opponents.
Slot’s reluctance to bench Salah has compounded the problem. Star-player dynamics, contractual guarantees, or perhaps an over-reliance on Salah’s previous brilliance may explain the decision, but the result is clear: Liverpool’s rebuild is being hampered, and opportunities to develop a balanced squad are being missed.
The international break presents a potential turning point. With Salah away at the Africa Cup of Nations, Slot has a chance to recalibrate the team, prioritize merit-based selection, and address the imbalance that has plagued Liverpool. If Liverpool are to regain competitiveness at the top level, the time to act is now.
