The starting lineup featured only one change from the previous match, with Wirtz replacing Gakpo. However, Wirtz wasn't deployed as a traditional left winger but rather as a left attacking midfielder. The formation remained a 4-2-3-1, but Wirtz and Salah operate very differently. Salah primarily received the ball on the right flank, attempting to drive past defenders or deliver passes. Wirtz, on the other hand, enjoyed greater freedom. Defensively, he mainly covered the left side, while offensively he focused on the left wing but could also drift into central or right positions. After experimenting over a dozen matches, Slot recognized that the “Mac 8 Gravenberch” midfield trio is inseparable. Wirtz's optimal position isn't the central No.10 role either. That position faces excessive pressure from tackles, and Wirtz's ball-holding tendencies make him too vulnerable to interceptions there. Szoboszlai, conversely, is less ball-hugging, possesses strong pressing ability, and covers vast ground defensively in that role. His long-range shooting threat also surpasses Wirtz's. For now, Szoboszlai appears to have won the battle for the No.10 spot. The competition between Wirtz and Gakpo for the left forward position will likely depend on the opponent.
Roberson started consecutively in this match, being substituted by Kerkez only in the 88th minute. Kerkez's consecutive starts early in the season were actually a bit too demanding for him. Having just joined a new team, he needs time to adapt and is better suited to starting from the bench, gradually learning the playing style of his seniors. Bradley, who has been with the first team longer on the right flank, actually possesses considerable match experience. His previous underwhelming performances stemmed from missing the full preseason due to injury. In this match, with Salah providing defensive cover, he effectively shut down the opposition's primary attacking route. While his offensive capabilities may fall short of Arnold or Frimpong, Liverpool's current defensive vulnerabilities outweigh their attacking concerns. Prioritizing defensive stability is crucial for now. Once Frimpong returns from injury, competition for the right-back position will likely resume.
The last two opponents favored ground-based tactics, with fewer long balls and less threat from set pieces, easing Liverpool's defensive burden. The upcoming Premier League away match against Manchester City will likely follow a similar pattern, though Haaland's center-forward prowess means City may increase their aerial play. Liverpool's starting lineup is unlikely to see major changes. Gakpo and Kerkez may replace Wirtz and Robertson, with the rest of the lineup remaining unchanged. If Isak is fit, he'll likely start on the bench. Fielding too many new signings simultaneously would disrupt the team's rhythm. Hopefully, manager Slot will exercise patience, allowing newcomers to earn starting spots through competition. This approach would help avoid the dramatic ups and downs often seen in the early stages of a season.