How Liverpool Can Shock the World and Win the Premier League

Under Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool typically ran a 4-3-3 formation with attacking full-backs and balanced midfielders. Under new manager Arne Slot, it could be more of the same. However, if Liverpool wants to get back to challenging the likes of Man City and Arsenal for the top of the Premier League, a small adjustment should be made to the lineup and formation based on personnel.

First off, I think fully embracing a 4-2-3-1 formation would be beneficial, mainly due to the talent and skill set of Trent Alexander-Arnold. He often shifted into midfield at the right back spot, but this at times left Liverpool exposed defensively. I think using TAA as part of a double pivot with either Wataru Endo or Alexis Mac Allister provides a good balance of skill, mobility, and physicality. Allowing TAA to focus more on the offensive end of the pitch should benefit his game greatly and the team as well.

The next change would be to insert Conor Bradley at right back. The youngster impressed in a small sample of game time when Liverpool had injuries, and showed he belonged in the starting lineup. Not only does moving TAA into the midfield benefit his own game, but it also allows Bradley to step in, providing more balance at right back. A combination of Mohamed Salah, TAA, and Bradley on the right side of the pitch would be great for passing combinations and elite crossing.

Finally, a switch to a double pivot would allow Dominik Szoboszlai more freedom in the attack. More of an attacking midfielder/winger, Szoboszlai has a fantastic right foot, making him great on set pieces, crossing, and long shots. He played more of a traditional eight role last season, but I think he would be better served as a ten or even a left winger. Slotting him in between Salah and Luis Díaz on the wings and just behind Diogo Jota would make an outstanding front four. That doesn’t even include other great attacking threats like Darwin Núñez and Cody Gakpo.

All-in-all, while losing Jurgen Klopp could make things difficult for Liverpool, a big change could be the jolt the team needs to push for first in the Premier League. Klopp was pretty consistent with his tactics and lineups, which made sense given they worked well, but a slight alteration could push them over the top. Arne Slot could stick to the status quo and build on what Klopp established, but that would likely lead to another third-place finish. If Liverpool truly wants to challenge Man City and Arsenal, then taking risks is necessary.