Liverpool manager Arne Slot is under immense pressure as his team travels to Germany to face Eintracht Frankfurt in a crucial Champions League match at Deutsche Bank Park on Wednesday. The Reds are enduring their worst run of form in years, having lost their last four consecutive matches across all competitions. This slump includes consecutive Premier League defeats and a shock Champions League loss to Galatasaray. A defeat in Frankfurt could mark a historical low for Slot, making him the first Liverpool manager since Don Welsh in 1953 to oversee five consecutive losses.
The pressure is mounting on Slot to quickly turn things around. After a promising start to his Liverpool tenure, marked by attacking football and tactical control, the recent string of defeats has shaken confidence within the team and among supporters. The latest setback came in a disheartening 2-1 loss to Manchester United, leaving the team four points adrift of the Premier League summit.
Eintracht Frankfurt, managed by Dino Toppmöller, are also looking to bounce back after a humbling 5-1 defeat to Atlético Madrid in their previous Champions League fixture. While Frankfurt's domestic form has been inconsistent, they hold a strong home record in European competitions. Their high-pressing style and the intense atmosphere at Deutsche Bank Park will present a significant challenge for Liverpool. Frankfurt's adventurous style, characterized by high pressing and expansive full-backs, can be both inspiring and leave them vulnerable.
Historically, Liverpool have a good record against German opposition, remaining unbeaten in their last 14 UEFA matches. However, their current form casts a shadow over this historical dominance. Liverpool's defensive frailties have been a major concern during their losing streak, with the team struggling to maintain clean sheets.
Slot is likely to persist with his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation. Giorgi Mamardashvili will continue to deputize for the injured Alisson in goal. Key players like Mohamed Salah, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Cody Gakpo will be crucial in Liverpool's attack. Salah, with 22 of his 49 Champions League goals scored away from home, is aiming to become the first African player to reach 50 goals in the competition.
Eintracht Frankfurt will likely field a strong side, with Jonathan Burkardt being a key figure in their attack. Toppmöller is expected to utilize a 3-4-2-1 or a 4-2-3-1 system, relying on the team's attacking talent to exploit Liverpool's defensive vulnerabilities.
Despite Liverpool's struggles, they possess the quality to rediscover their rhythm. The match is expected to be intense, with Frankfurt pressing high and Liverpool looking to counter with precision. Key battles will unfold in the midfield and attacking channels, with Liverpool's Szoboszlai and Salah facing Frankfurt's Skhiri and Brown, respectively.
A victory for Liverpool is crucial to revive their Champions League campaign and ease the pressure on Arne Slot. However, Eintracht Frankfurt will be eager to exploit Liverpool's vulnerabilities and secure a positive result on their home ground.
