Liverpool’s Tactical Evolution Under Arne Slot: Spotlight on Darwin Nunez

Liverpool’s ongoing evolution under new manager Arne Slot has been a captivating narrative for fans and analysts alike. The team’s recent 3-3 draw against Newcastle offered a kaleidoscope of insights into Slot’s tactics, the team’s adaptability, and Darwin Nunez’s role within this evolving system. The match was unpacked in detail by Dan Kennett and Hamzah Loonat on the Anfield Index: Under Pressure Podcast, revealing both tactical brilliance and areas requiring attention.

Tactical Blueprint

Slot’s tactical philosophy prioritises control and high-intensity transitions, as seen in Liverpool’s set-up against Newcastle. Dan Kennett noted that the team has focused on maintaining “strong central areas,” a strategy evident in the decision to keep Joe Gomez and Virgil van Dijk paired centrally, even at the expense of width provided by full-backs.

Hamzah Loonat added nuance, highlighting Newcastle’s press, which effectively neutralised Liverpool’s attempts to play through Ryan Gravenberch. “Joelinton was all over him, grappling, jostling, and ensuring he couldn’t dictate play,” Loonat observed. This aggressive midfield battle tested Liverpool’s adaptability, and the response, particularly after halftime, was promising.

Darwin Nunez: Proactive or Reactive?

Much of the podcast’s focus was on Darwin Nunez, whose performance against Newcastle raised critical questions about his effectiveness. Robbie Fowler, commenting post-match, described Nunez as a “reactive striker” who struggles to anticipate key moments—a sentiment echoed by Loonat. A glaring example was his inability to connect with a chance created by Cody Gakpo, a moment described by Kennett as indicative of Nunez’s inconsistent positioning.

Nunez’s statistical output further highlights this concern. According to Kennett, Nunez is enduring a run of three goals in 28 appearances, significantly underperforming his expected goals (xG) tally by 3.9. His shot conversion rate of just 7% over this period contrasts sharply with his career average of 11%. Loonat succinctly put it: “Nunez’s shop production has to be higher if he’s leading the line.”

Slot System’s Impact on Attackers

Slot’s system appears to prioritise Salah as the focal point of attack, possibly at the expense of Nunez’s natural game. This strategic shift was apparent in the Newcastle match, where Salah’s ability to adapt and produce moments of brilliance shone. “Mo Salah’s pass for Curtis Jones’s goal was exquisite,” noted Kennett, while Loonat described Salah’s second-half strike as a “routine finish into the bottom corner.”

Despite Nunez’s struggles, his off-the-ball work has improved significantly, and Kennett was quick to acknowledge this growth. However, the challenge remains for Slot to create scenarios where Nunez can thrive. Perhaps a more tailored “horses for courses” role could help Nunez regain form.

Slot’s Transformational Substitutions

One of the most compelling aspects of the match was Slot’s use of substitutions, which Kennett praised as “game-changing.” The introduction of Trent Alexander-Arnold in the second half transformed Liverpool’s right side. Alexander-Arnold, operating in a hybrid role, showcased his passing range, creating Liverpool’s equaliser with a pinpoint assist to Salah. Kennett emphasised that “Alexander-Arnold produced 20% of Liverpool’s overall threat in just 29 minutes—a remarkable cameo.”

The fluid understanding between Alexander-Arnold and Salah was also a highlight, with Loonat noting the years of chemistry that enable such instinctive play. This understanding will be pivotal as Slot continues to fine-tune his system.

Moving Forward

The Newcastle draw underscores Liverpool’s ongoing adjustment to Slot’s philosophy. While the match showcased moments of tactical brilliance, particularly in the second half, the team’s struggles with consistency and defensive solidity remain areas to address.

For Darwin Nunez, the challenge is to convert potential into production. Slot’s tactical nous and willingness to adapt could unlock a system that better suits the striker’s attributes, allowing him to reclaim his place as a clinical finisher.

As Liverpool continue their campaign, fans will look to Slot to refine the balance between tactical structure and individual expression. If the Newcastle game is any indication, this journey promises to be as exciting as it is transformative.