Liverpool’s Midfield Puzzle: Zubimendi or Another Solution?

Liverpool’s strong start to the season under new manager Arne Slot has fans excited, yet there’s a clear issue emerging in the midfield. Despite Slot’s squad winning nine of their first ten games, gaps in the midfield have surfaced. David Lynch’s recent analysis on his Substack outlines the growing concern and raises the possibility of a January move for Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi.

Growing Concern Over Midfield Depth

Typically, when a team is winning, calls for reinforcements are minimal. But as Lynch points out, “it does not take much for Liverpool to start looking a little thin in midfield.” The initial assumption was that the team had enough midfield depth, even with Thiago Alcantara’s departure and Stefan Bajcetic’s loan to RB Salzburg. However, Slot’s early decisions, particularly his reluctance to trust Wataru Endo, have left Liverpool potentially understrength in this critical area.

Lynch highlights that “Endo’s standing in the squad is best summed up by the fact he has clocked up just three minutes of action across the Premier League and Champions League thus far.” It’s a damning indictment of the Japanese international’s role under the new regime, and with Bajcetic out on loan, Liverpool’s options in midfield appear to have dwindled further.

Slot’s System and the Need for a “Tempo-Setter”

One of the key differences between Slot and his predecessor, Jürgen Klopp, is the type of midfielder each prefers. Klopp’s sides thrived with “destroyers” like Fabinho, Romeo Lavia, and Moises Caicedo—players who could break up opposition play and press intensely. Slot, however, seems to be looking for a different profile, someone more adept at controlling the tempo of games. Lynch writes, “Liverpool are now keen to add a tempo-setter who might well have looked out of place in a Klopp team, rather than a destroyer like past targets.”

This shift in focus has been well-received but also has caused difficulties. The uncertainty surrounding Zubimendi’s future at Real Sociedad, combined with Liverpool’s failure to secure him over the summer, has created a situation where the club must now be prepared for any eventuality in January. Lynch points out that, while Zubimendi seemed committed to staying at his boyhood club, Sociedad’s struggles—winning just two of their last 11 games—might change things: “you wonder whether both he and Sociedad are now beginning to think that a move would make sense sooner rather than later.”

January Transfer Window: Zubimendi or Plan B?

Liverpool’s recruitment team is now tasked with identifying alternative targets if Zubimendi continues to prove elusive. Lynch aptly notes the challenges faced during the summer window, citing internal upheaval within the recruitment department as a major factor. Yet, with Slot’s system now clearly defined, the club’s search for the right profile of player should be more straightforward.

A January move for Zubimendi still feels entirely possible, especially with Liverpool sources refusing to rule out a return for the Spaniard. But there are no guarantees in football. Lynch highlights the need for Liverpool to be prepared for a “potential Zubimendi U-turn,” stating, “if there is any fear of another snub that would ruin the Reds’ January plans, then it is clear that the recruitment team’s task is to find an alternative option.”

Fortunately for Liverpool, the emergence of Ryan Gravenberch has provided some breathing room. Gravenberch’s performances since arriving have tempered concerns, allowing the club to proceed with a less frantic approach to strengthening the midfield in January. As Lynch concludes, “if they wish to build on Slot’s strong start, then bolstering an area he so quickly identified as in need of improvement would surely go a long way.”

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, this analysis raises important questions about the current midfield situation. With Arne Slot’s system demanding different qualities from players than Klopp’s, the club’s long-term vision seems to be evolving. Fans are excited by Gravenberch’s rise, but are also aware that Liverpool’s midfield depth could easily become an issue if injuries or fatigue hit.

While Zubimendi is undoubtedly a tempting option, Liverpool should not become overly reliant on one target. Supporters know too well that transfer deals can collapse late, and pinning hopes on Zubimendi alone feels risky. Slot’s insistence on a “tempo-setter” could be a game-changer for the team, but any new addition must be the right fit to continue the momentum the team has already built.

Moreover, the Endo situation adds another layer of intrigue. Many fans were excited by his arrival, but Slot’s apparent lack of faith in him is puzzling. Supporters are left wondering if Endo could still play a role or if his Liverpool journey is effectively over.

In conclusion, whether Liverpool land Zubimendi or turn to another target, the January transfer window will be critical. The club is on an upward trajectory under Slot, but as Lynch suggests, addressing midfield depth could be the difference between merely competing and challenging for top honours this season.