Liverpool manager Arne Slot has recently emphasized the importance of a sophisticated approach to football, stating definitively that "You cannot win the Premier League playing long-ball football". This declaration comes amidst a season where Liverpool is aiming to maintain a competitive edge in a league known for its tactical diversity and intensity.
Slot's comments reflect a broader understanding of the evolving nature of the Premier League, where teams increasingly rely on intricate passing sequences, high pressing, and tactical flexibility to gain an advantage. While a direct, long-ball approach might offer occasional surprise or disrupt an opponent's rhythm, Slot suggests it lacks the consistency and control needed to sustain a title-winning campaign.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of Liverpool's clash against Manchester United, Slot pinpointed key areas where his team needs improvement. Despite Liverpool's strong start to the season, with five wins in their first five Premier League games, Slot acknowledged a slight dip in chance creation compared to the previous season. He noted, "We don't create as many chances as we did at the start of last season". However, he also highlighted that Liverpool remains a potent attacking force, leading the league in expected goals (xG) from open play and shots on target.
Slot has also addressed concerns about Liverpool's defensive vulnerabilities. He admitted that the team is conceding too many goals, with nine allowed in recent matches, including four from set-pieces. Slot identified two recurring issues: an increasing number of crosses and conceding from fast breaks. He explained, "We are conceding too many crosses, and that is something we need to address". He also noted that teams are increasingly using long balls and quick transitions to exploit space behind Liverpool's defensive line. "The amount of long balls that we are facing now compared to last season, I think we're already one-third on the way in the amount of long balls we have to defend compared to last season after seven games,” he said.
Slot's emphasis on improving defensive structure aligns with his broader philosophy of building a team that is both exciting in attack and resilient in defense. He believes that tightening up defensively is crucial for Liverpool to regain their rhythm and maintain a title challenge. "We have to find answers to that and the first answer is not to concede so many goals," he stated.
In February 2025, following Liverpool's FA Cup defeat to Plymouth Argyle, Slot likened Plymouth's long-ball tactics to those sometimes employed by Manchester United. He noted that such a direct approach, characterized by "constantly long ball, second ball," can be difficult to play against, even for Liverpool's starters. He referenced a previous match against Manchester United where they adopted a similar style, defending in a low block and playing long balls.
Despite these challenges, Slot remains confident in his team's ability to adapt and improve. He recognizes the need to address defensive frailties and rediscover their attacking flair. Slot's focus on creativity, defensive solidity, and tactical adaptability suggests a commitment to a more sophisticated and sustainable approach to winning the Premier League, moving beyond the perceived limitations of a purely long-ball strategy.
