Arne Slot's arrival at Liverpool has naturally prompted questions about the future role of Mohamed Salah, a player who has been integral to the club's success for nearly a decade. While Salah's importance is undeniable, Slot's tactical approach and Liverpool's long-term planning necessitate a nuanced strategy to integrate the Egyptian star into the team's evolving dynamics.
Slot has publicly affirmed Salah's significance to Liverpool's future. Amidst speculation and debate sparked by Salah's recent omission from the starting lineup against West Ham, Slot emphasized that this decision doesn't signal the end of Salah's time at the club. He attributed the decision to squad rotation necessitated by a congested fixture schedule, highlighting the need to manage the workload of key players.
Tactically, Slot's vision involves a dynamic and adaptable system that leverages Salah's strengths while addressing potential weaknesses. Slot's teams often employ a flexible 4-2-4 formation during the build-up phase. This formation can transition into a high-intensity pressing system when out of possession, focusing on tactical traps and strategic foresight. In possession, Slot's wingers, including Salah, maintain width to attack opponents in 1v1 situations. Slot immediately plays to Salah's strengths, allowing him to remain in the first line as long as possible, from where he can seriously threaten on attacking transitions. The Dutchman also complements Salah's direct and diagonal movements off the ball, towards the opposition goal, with the players he selects around him.
However, Slot's tactical insights also suggest a need for Salah to adapt defensively. Slot noted that against West Ham, the team's setup with a high full-back and an inside winger was chosen to enhance the team's defensive work, implying a need for Salah to improve in this area. This highlights a potential area of development for Salah as he integrates into Slot's system.
Liverpool's planning extends beyond Salah, with the club actively shaping its squad for the future. The decision to leave Salah out of the starting lineup against West Ham provided a glimpse into Liverpool's potential setup during Salah's absence for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Slot appears to be settling on a hybrid approach: a fluid 4-2-3-1 in possession and a 4-4-2 press out of possession. The team will have to cope without Salah, who is expected to join Egypt for AFCON by mid-December.
The emergence of Dominik Szoboszlai as a key player exemplifies Liverpool's evolving tactical approach. Szoboszlai's defensive contributions and tactical flexibility offer Slot an alternative on the right flank, providing balance and stability. While Szoboszlai may not replicate Salah's goal output, his ability to invert into midfield and contribute defensively provides Slot with tactical options.
Looking ahead, Liverpool's long-term strategy involves nurturing young talents and making strategic signings to complement the existing squad. While Salah remains a key figure, Liverpool is also planning for a future where he may not be the central focus. This long-term vision necessitates a balanced approach that integrates Salah's talents with the team's overall evolution.
Overall, Arne Slot's plan for Mohamed Salah involves a blend of tactical adaptation, workload management, and long-term squad planning. While Salah's role may evolve, his importance to Liverpool remains significant as Slot seeks to build a team capable of sustained success.
