Arne Slot Insists Liverpool Approach Hasn't Changed Despite Familiar Problem at Fulham

Arne Slot has reaffirmed that Liverpool's tactical approach remains unchanged following their 2-2 draw at Fulham, despite ongoing issues with chance creation and attacking output. Speaking in his first press conference of 2026 ahead of the clash, the Dutch manager addressed criticisms of the team's stagnant attack while emphasizing defensive stability gains.

The Reds' performance at Craven Cottage highlighted a familiar problem: lacking cutting edge, especially in the first half, mirroring their recent 0-0 draw at home to Leeds. Slot adjusted his lineup in October and November by benching Mohamed Salah, deploying Dominik Szoboszlai on the right, and adding an extra midfielder to end a dismal run of nine defeats in 12 games. This shift has bolstered defense—Fulham scored only from their first chance and Harrison Reed's long-range screamer—but at a cost to attacking impetus[2].

"I'd like to create five times as much chances as we do now," Slot admitted, but defended his strategy: "In the period when we were playing more open, we didn't create more chances but conceded much more." He seeks greater creativity without sacrificing balance, viewing Fulham as a true defensive test[1][2]. Injuries compound the issue, with Alexander Isak out and Hugo Ekitike sidelined by a hamstring problem, placing pressure on Cody Gakpo and Florian Wirtz—who both scored at Fulham—to step up ahead of Thursday's Arsenal trip[2].

Slot provided injury updates, confirming a boost with Gomez's return and Konaté's availability[1]. Concerns linger over repeating last season's squad-management errors, over-reliance on a small core, and xG underperformance amid creativity woes. Despite a "hard watching" 0-0 with Leeds sparking debate on his future, Slot's calm demeanor hides frustration, insisting this Liverpool side falls short of his vision but is on track for the second half of the season[1][3].

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