Rousing the Kop

The best possible line-up Arne Slot can pick to get Liverpool fans back on side vs Marseille - opinion

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The Best Possible Line-Up Arne Slot Can Pick to Get Liverpool Fans Back on Side vs Marseille - Opinion

Arne Slot faces mounting pressure as Liverpool prepare for a crucial Champions League clash against Marseille at the Stade Velodrome on Wednesday night. After a turbulent season of ups and downs, including a recent 1-1 draw with Burnley and a public fallout with Mohamed Salah, Slot needs a strong performance to reignite fan support. The Reds sit level on points with Atletico Madrid but outside the top eight due to goal difference, making this match pivotal to avoid a play-off.[1][3][4]



The article argues for an attacking, fan-favorite 4-3-3 line-up that maximizes creativity and firepower, blending refreshed legs with key returns. In goal, Alisson Becker remains unchallenged, backed by four clean sheets in recent games.[2] Defensively, Joseph Gomez at right-back provides solidity over the injured Conor Bradley, alongside Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk in central defense, with Andrew Robertson – rested at the weekend – bombing forward from left-back. This backline offers balance after Saturday's chance creation but poor finishing.[1][2][3]

Midfield hinges on Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch for control, with Dominik Szoboszlai adding dynamism – his two goals this term make him essential.[2] Up top, the dream front three features Florian Wirtz (three goals) pulling strings centrally, Cody Gakpo on the left for width, and Hugo Ekitike (five goals) leading the line. But the headline-grabber: Mohamed Salah's potential return post-AFCON, where Egypt fell in the semis. Having reconciled with Slot, his inclusion on the right would electrify Anfield faithful remotely, especially after missing December's European outing.[1][3][4][5]

Injuries sideline Bradley (knee), Giovanni Leoni (knee), and Alexander Isak (leg), but Slot has options like Curtis Jones or Jeremie Frimpong from the bench.[3][4][5] Against an inconsistent Marseille – fresh off a 5-2 win but with three CL losses – Liverpool are favorites. Roberto De Zerbi's hosts (predicted 3-5-2: Rulli; Murillo, Balerdi, Medina; etc., with Aubameyang and Greenwood threats) pose danger, but Slot's bold selection could deliver three points and restore harmony.[2][4][7]

This line-up prioritizes flair over caution, signaling Slot's intent to entertain and win back doubters amid fixture chaos.[5] (298 words)

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