Liverpool enter Sunday’s Premier League clash with Arsenal boasting two wins from two and seven goals scored, yet the statistics mask deeper concerns. Despite strong attacking displays, their defensive structure has looked fragile, with two goals conceded in every competitive game so far this season, including the Community Shield defeat.
Last season, Liverpool’s success was built on control. Once they took the lead, they rarely let opponents back in, often easing to 2-0 victories without expending excessive energy. That efficiency kept players fresh, reduced injuries, and created an aura of calm dominance. This season, however, opponents have repeatedly found ways back into games. Crystal Palace troubled them, Bournemouth equalized after trailing 2-0, and Newcastle, even with 10 men, unsettled Liverpool until a late winner saved the day.
The issues extend beyond individual errors. New signing Milos Kerkez has struggled defensively, dragged out of position in each of his outings, while Ibrahima Konaté has appeared uncertain in duels. A high defensive line has at times exposed them, most notably when Newcastle’s Dan Burn outjumped Konaté to set up their equalizer. With injuries forcing changes at full-back, including Dominik Szoboszlai briefly filling in at right-back, the back four has lacked cohesion.
Midfield adjustments have also played a part. Slot’s shift to a 4-2-3-1 demands a new balance, with Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister adapting to a deep-lying partnership. While this structure may eventually stabilize, the midfield currently feels too open, leaving Virgil van Dijk and Konaté exposed to runners.
Slot’s in-game management has been mixed. While substitutes Federico Chiesa and Rio Ngumoha delivered decisive goals in recent matches, the reluctance to make early changes at Newcastle highlighted a more cautious approach. This has been matched by a noticeable drop in pressing intensity compared with both the Klopp era and last season. It raises questions about squad depth and Slot’s trust in his options, especially with transfer business still desired before the window closes.
Arsenal, though hit by injuries to key players like Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, and Martin Ødegaard, will view Liverpool’s current uncertainty as an opportunity. For all of Liverpool’s attacking promise, their vulnerability suggests that the process of rebuilding under Slot is far from complete.
