The Setting and Starting Eleven
Game 1 of Liverpool’s Europa League campaign was always going to see some rotated names thrown into Jürgen Klopp’s starting line-up. With 19,080 fans in attendance at the Raiffeisen Arena, it represented a good venue for a few players to really start their season. The eleven that began the game was widely debated and ensured some unfamiliar play in our game.
Initial Struggles and a Standout Performance
With a weak first half that underwhelmed the travelling Liverpool fans; another goal conceded will continue to be a concern for our German manager. The starting line-up was uncoordinated at times, which meant that individual brilliance was always likely to shine the brightest. Our dazzling Colombian star was the Liverpool player which shone brightest, as Luis DÃaz continually strived to create and maintain our attacking intent.
Luis Diaz first time finishing is world class. These finishes he does aren’t easy. The one vs spurs at home last season was also hard
— Sean (@SeanDOlfc) September 21, 2023
DÃaz’s Impact and Team Cohesion
It took a wonderfully crafted cross (by the impressive Gravenberch) to find the former Porto sensation, yet the first-time finish by our tenacious left winger was a brilliant sign of increased goal scoring prowess. Up until this point, there was little sign of cohesion between some players that are most certainly still getting used to one another. These moments where the patterns of play are frustratingly stagnating, requires mavericks and magicians to ensure forward momentum. In Darwin and Luis, we have two incredible South American talents, who can take the load of a weighted Mohamed Salah. These three look like the best trio of attackers available, therefore, the hope is that they all start against West Ham on Sunday.
Overall Reflection
Tonight, was far from great and to be honest, much of it was bad. What can be said, is that the players we rely upon to stand up and deliver are doing so this year, which includes this evening’s man of the match. As the caption below states, it was always likely to be a staggered game, with so many players being drafted into this heavily rotated environment.
How often is the internet and the pundits all frustrated, and often baffled by a performance
When the XI fellas on show have never played a minute of football together before
It’s as though systems, cohesion, familiarity, team work plays a role in football….
— SimonBrundish (@SimonBrundish) September 21, 2023
Klopp’s Choices and DÃaz’s Value
There are most certainly a few question marks surrounding Jürgen Klopp’s proffered best eleven. With eight or nine players nailed on to be in that upper elite category, there may just be one name that is creeping up that list to become the most important player in our squad. Luis DÃaz could prove be the most valuable asset in a strong year, as once again he showed just how vital he can be.
