Andy Robertson or Kostas Tsimikas: Who Should Arne Slot Trust on Liverpool’s Left Side?

Liverpool fans are all too familiar with Andy Robertson’s relentless energy and tenacity, which made him a key figure in Jurgen Klopp’s pressing-heavy style. Now, under Arne Slot, Liverpool’s tactical setup has evolved, and the once-undisputed left-back finds himself under more scrutiny. With Robertson’s performances tapering off and Kostas Tsimikas showing signs of real promise, Slot has a significant decision to make.

Tsimikas Shines Defensively in Slot’s System

Under Slot’s management, Tsimikas has taken his opportunity to shine, particularly in his defensive contributions. Though he was once prone to errors that cost Liverpool dearly, this season has seen the Greek left-back elevate his game. His Premier League stats reveal a robust defensive profile: Tsimikas averages 4.62 tackles, 2.31 clearances, and boasts a 75% tackle success rate per 90 minutes, with no mistakes leading directly to opposition shots. He’s winning 50% of his aerial duels, doubling Robertson’s 25% success rate.

Robertson, by comparison, has struggled to meet Slot’s demands on defence. The Scotsman averages just 1.22 tackles, 0.95 clearances, and a tackle success rate of 53.8%. Years of relentless pressing have taken a toll, and Robertson now appears a step slower when faced with pacey wingers and aggressive counter-attacks. His diminishing numbers suggest Tsimikas is, at least defensively, the better fit in Slot’s system.

Control and Passing Precision: Tsimikas Edges Robertson

Slot’s approach at Liverpool is more measured than Klopp’s, with an emphasis on controlled possession and building from the back. Robertson, who thrived in Klopp’s up-tempo style, has seen his passing consistency slip. In the Premier League, he completes 57.2 passes per 90 minutes with an 82.8% accuracy rate. Tsimikas, however, averages 69.2 passes with a completion rate of 86.1%, suggesting he’s more comfortable with the controlled play Slot desires.

In short, Tsimikas not only makes fewer errors but also executes more precise short, medium, and long-range passes. His effectiveness in retaining possession and initiating forward moves makes him a preferable option in Liverpool’s recent outings. This advantage was apparent in Liverpool’s recent fixtures against Brighton and Bayer Leverkusen, where Tsimikas’ composure under pressure helped Liverpool maintain their flow.

Attacking Impact: Is Tsimikas the New Robertson?

Robertson’s attacking prowess was once undeniable, contributing directly to Liverpool’s success in past seasons. His best years saw him tally double-digit assists, but recent seasons have seen a decline. In 2021/22, he delivered 15 assists, but last season, limited by injuries and changes in tactics, he managed just two across all competitions. This season, his attacking output is even leaner, averaging 1.89 progressive carries and 4.73 progressive passes per 90 minutes. While he has created ten chances, his expected assists stand at only 1.06.

Tsimikas, meanwhile, offers a fresher energy going forward, averaging 10.8 progressive passes and 1.92 carries per 90 minutes in the Premier League. He’s been more active in taking shots, although often from range, and already has an assist from a corner to Virgil van Dijk in the Champions League clash with Milan. With Liverpool increasingly relying on collective contributions rather than individual heroics, Tsimikas’ numbers position him as the more dynamic, attacking option.

Who Should Start? A Dilemma for Slot

Slot’s Liverpool have depth and versatility, allowing the manager to rotate his left-backs according to the demands of each fixture. However, the current form indicates that Tsimikas may be the better option for high-profile games. His defensive solidity and passing precision are assets that Robertson, grappling with Slot’s more disciplined style, has struggled to match. Recent encounters, such as Robertson’s match against Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka, highlighted his vulnerabilities, with Saka exploiting the space behind the Scotsman.

While Robertson may eventually adapt to Slot’s tactical tweaks, the shift in expectations is undeniable. Tsimikas currently embodies the dynamism that Robertson once brought to Liverpool’s left flank. Slot’s system calls for a full-back who can balance defensive duties with controlled possession, and Tsimikas appears to fit that bill more comfortably for now.