Liverpool’s Bright Start Under Arne Slot: A Comprehensive Analysis

Liverpool’s season is off to a flying start, with Arne Slot leading the charge. The new manager has delivered a perfect record, a feat not seen since George Kay’s days in 1936. As Dave Davis pointed out in the recent Anfield Index podcast, this start is nothing short of remarkable, especially considering the daunting backdrop of Old Trafford. But beyond the results, there’s much to dissect about Liverpool’s performance, particularly concerning Luis Diaz, the role of key players, and the strategic decisions that have shaped this early success.

Luis Diaz: A Star Reborn?

One of the most intriguing narratives this season is Luis Diaz’s resurgence. Last season, Diaz was often criticized for his wastefulness, epitomized by his miss against Manchester City in a crucial draw. However, this season, Diaz seems to be a player transformed under Slot’s guidance. As Davis mentioned, “Luis Diaz was losing the ball quite a bit,” but he also delivered when it mattered most, bagging two crucial goals against Manchester United.

This transformation, highlighted by Diaz’s performance at Old Trafford, suggests that while the Colombian winger still has areas to improve, he’s starting to show a consistency that Liverpool fans have longed for. His ability to contribute both goals and assists in back-to-back games against Brentford and United indicates a player who is beginning to find his rhythm in Slot’s system.

Arne Slot: The Tactical Mastermind

Arne Slot’s start at Liverpool has been nothing short of phenomenal. Winning his first three Premier League games without conceding a single goal is a testament to his tactical acumen. As Davis pointed out, Slot’s Liverpool is a team with the most shots, the highest xG for, and the lowest xG against in the league. This balance between attack and defence is what has set Slot apart from his predecessors.

Slot’s ability to communicate effectively and his willingness to make tough decisions, like substituting Trent Alexander-Arnold when necessary, shows a manager who is not afraid to assert his authority. As Davis noted, “There’s almost an iron will to Slot… a direct communicator, confident, and an excellent communicator.” This is precisely the kind of leadership Liverpool needed after a tumultuous season last year.

The Emerging First XI

Another critical aspect of Liverpool’s early success is the clarity of Slot’s preferred starting XI. While injuries and rotation will inevitably play a role as the season progresses, Davis argues that we are starting to see a core group of players emerge. Key figures like Alisson, Van Dijk, and Salah are irreplaceable, but the inclusion of Ryan Gravenberch in the midfield is particularly noteworthy.

Gravenberch, initially seen as a squad player, has quickly become indispensable. His performances, particularly against Manchester United, where he won “seven duels, regained possession six times, and made four interceptions,” have earned him a place in Slot’s first XI. Davis was right to highlight Gravenberch’s transformation, noting that he “looked a level above everyone in United’s midfield.”

Contract Concerns Linger

However, it’s not all sunshine and roses at Anfield. The uncertainty surrounding key player contracts is a looming shadow over Liverpool’s bright start. Mohamed Salah’s contract situation, in particular, has raised alarm bells. As Davis recounted, Salah’s statement that “no one in the club has talked to me yet about a contract” has fans on edge.

The same uncertainty applies to Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold. With their contracts also up for renewal, Liverpool’s management must act swiftly to secure the futures of these key players. As Davis put it, “If the contracts aren’t done by [the end of the international break], it’s right to ask massive, massive questions of Richard Hughes and whoever’s helping him around that.”

Liverpool’s start under Arne Slot has been nothing short of extraordinary. Luis Diaz’s resurgence, the emergence of a clear first XI, and Slot’s tactical brilliance have all contributed to this success. However, the looming contract issues must be addressed to maintain this momentum. As fans bask in the glory of a 3-0 win at Old Trafford, they also wait anxiously for news off the pitch that could define the club’s future.