There was a time when Diogo Jota felt inevitable in a Liverpool shirt.

However, a string of injuries and a lack of consistency has found the forward not only battling for fitness, but for a place amongst Arne Slot’s squad post the summer rebuild.

This season, Jota’s goal contributions have saw a quick decline with the Portuguese once known as a pivotal figure in Liverpool’s forward line to a future that feels increasingly uncertain.

The question facing both the player and Arne Slot is whether Jota can continue to be trusted – or if the time has come for a change amongst Liverpool’s attacking options.

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We will be diving closer into what has gone wrong for the forward on a personal level this campaign, whilst assessing the crucial decision that will need to be made to align with the club’s long-term planning under the new structure.

A SEASON OF FRUSTRATION

For a player with the attacking instincts and technical ability that Diogo Jota possesses, the 2024-25 campaign has proved a difficult one.

Jota’s numbers have plummeted drastically compared to previous seasons with only nine goals from thirty-six appearances, ultimately falling well below of pre-season expectations that were placed upon him.

The Portuguese’s career has been marked by his clinical finishing, high work-rate and versatility, however, Jota has seemed to lack the sharpness and consistency which has prevented him from building the type of momentum from his early years at Anfield.

The explosive impact of seasons prior has seemingly disappeared with most performances marred by a sense of playing catch-up at times.

Jota experienced a two-month injury lay-off from October 2024 to December 2025, in which he went onto miss a total of eighteen matches and ever since making a return, he has looked a shadow of his former self.

NOT THE RIGHT FIT?Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images.

In his first season under Arne Slot, Diogo Jota’s integration into Liverpool’s refreshed tactical setup has been far from seamless.

The high-intensity pressing game that suited him so well under Jürgen Klopp has been replaced with the Dutchman’s possession-based approach, which places a premium on technical build-up, positional discipline and patient attacks.

For a player like Jota whose strengths lie in explosive runs, quick transitions and clinical finishing, adapting to a more methodical style has proved a challenge.

The forward line is now required to engage in more intricate build-up play with an emphasis on fluid movement and keeping possession.

While Jota’s energy and instinctive play are undeniable, his tendency to play more direct and having to rely on his sharpness in the transitional moments, seeming less aligned with Arne Slot’s structural style.

The manager’s new setup has often lead his forward to look lost in many matches this season, whilst struggling to grasp the new system.

As Liverpool look toward a forward line revamp this summer, Diogo Jota’s inability to adapt to what the Dutchman is wanting from his strikers, may see him fall behind in a more disciplined side.

SENTIMENT OR STRATEGY

Liverpool supporters have always boasted a special connection with players who embody the club’s ethos and a never-say-die attitude.

Diogo Jota fits this bill.

His pressing, off the ball movement and knack for scoring in pivotal moments have made him a fan favourite, however, the reality is that sentiment often has to take a backseat when weighing up options that are best for the future of the football club.

The question facing Arne Slot and Liverpool’s hierachy is whether Jota remains worth the investment, especially given his long-standing injury record and inconsistent form.

From a tactical perspective, the emergence of younger and more technical players in the squad, may suggest that the time has come for Jota to move on.

Selling him could provide Liverpool with the financial resources to bolster the squad, while also opening up space for Slot to recruit players that are better suited to his vision, meaning the balance of loyalty mixed with a squad capable of competing is key for any future aspirations.

Although, letting go of a player like Diogo Jota is not a decision that can be taken lightly.

Players like Mohamed Salah, Luis Diaz and Cody Gakpo have already shown themselves to be integral parts of the team under Arne Slot and the reality is that Jota’s struggles could make him vulnerable.

Luis Díaz celebrates doubling Liverpool’s lead over Arsenal last weekend.

Liverpool FC/Getty Images.

If the Portugal international cannot meet the demands of the manager, then Liverpool may be forced into moving forward without him.

THE FINAL CALL

As Liverpool begin to enter a crucial summer, the future of Diogo Jota will be one of the most pressing questions for Arne Slot and their supporters.

The club plan an overhaul with as many as ttwo, maybe three forwards are set to leave, and Slot hopes of bringing in his own additions following the inheritance of a squad that was built for a former era.

Slot must decide whether to continue betting on Jota’s underlying ability or if he will seek a fresh direction, from a player who is struggling to adapt to a new system.

With Liverpool poised for summer change, Jota, like many others, will be under threat, but if given an opportunity in the Reds’ final two league matches, then his performances will make or break his Anfield career.

Whichever decision is made, it will be a reflection of the broader adjustments that the club is attempting to make under Slot’s leadership.

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