Slot’s revamped Liverpool are vulnerable in a way that they weren’t last season | Jonathan Wilson

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Liverpool’s vulnerability this season stems from defensive frailties that contrast sharply with their previous campaign's solidity. Although Liverpool continue to showcase attacking prowess, leading the Premier League goal charts early in the 2025-26 season, their defense has been exposed as a significant weakness[4][5]. Unlike last season’s title-winning campaign where they appeared composed at the back, this season Liverpool have conceded more league goals than nearly all other teams, relying heavily on Virgil van Dijk's leadership to hold the defense together[4].

The appointment of Arne Slot as manager has brought tactical refinements from Jurgen Klopp’s fast-paced “Heavy Metal Football” to a more balanced and controlled style, which initially elevated Liverpool to the top of the table and enhanced their Champions League prospects[2][3]. Yet, despite the tactical prowess displayed in matches such as the win over Manchester United, Liverpool’s defensive setup has glaring weaknesses, especially in full-back positions. The left-back Kerkez has shown vulnerabilities, while injuries and fitness concerns forced the inexperienced Szoboszlai to fill in at right-back, further highlighting the squad's defensive depth issues[4][5].

Contract uncertainties surrounding key players like Alexander-Arnold, Van Dijk, and Mohamed Salah add off-field distractions, increasing the sense of instability within the squad[2]. Liverpool’s transfer strategy under Slot is focused on addressing these gaps, with new acquisitions intended to reinforce both defense and offense, although some players like Federico Chiesa have seen limited impact due to fitness issues so far[2][3].

The looming challenge for Liverpool is to maintain their attacking record—already close to setting a club record for consecutive Premier League matches scoring—while urgently shoring up defensive weaknesses if they are to sustain their title defense and domestic dominance[4][5]. Their next fixture against Arsenal is crucial, as Arsenal remains defensively robust and Liverpool must prove their ability to resolve their vulnerabilities to stay ahead in the title race[4][5].

PP