Liverpool’s tactical shift sparks debate over Wirtz role under Slot
Arne Slot’s latest selection against Aston Villa was as much a nod to Liverpool’s recent history as it was a glimpse into his ongoing tactical evolution. In opting for familiarity, the Dutchman restored the structure and balance that underpinned much of last season’s Premier League success. The result—a composed 2-0 victory—came with renewed energy and control, yet also with a lingering question surrounding Florian Wirtz and his integration into the side.
Slot turns back to proven formula
After weeks of experimentation and mixed performances, Slot’s team sheet offered reassurance. A fully-fit Ryan Gravenberch joined Alexis Mac Allister in a two-man pivot, while Dominik Szoboszlai was reinstated in his preferred advanced role. The chemistry was evident. Liverpool’s midfield, previously inconsistent and stretched, found its rhythm again.
Mac Allister, sharper and more assured than in recent outings, played with renewed purpose. His incisive pass led to Gravenberch’s second-half strike—a moment that encapsulated the renewed cohesion between the trio. Szoboszlai, meanwhile, thrived once more in the number ten position, pressing intelligently and linking play between the lines with relentless drive.
It was a setup rooted in continuity, one that sacrificed experimentation for stability. But in doing so, Slot inadvertently reignited the ongoing debate surrounding one of his most high-profile summer acquisitions.
Wirtz dilemma deepens
Florian Wirtz’s cameo late in the match—a 15-minute appearance as a false nine—was a reminder of both his talent and his challenge. Signed for £116 million amid great anticipation, the German international has so far been used sparingly in key fixtures. Slot’s decision to limit his minutes, according to the Echo, suggested a continued search for tactical balance rather than a lack of trust.
With Real Madrid visiting Anfield in the Champions League midweek, Wirtz could yet find himself restored to the starting line-up. His creativity and intelligence in tight spaces remain among the best in Europe, but fitting him into a side that already boasts defined roles for Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, and Mac Allister poses a significant managerial puzzle.
For now, Liverpool’s system appears more efficient without forcing Wirtz into it. That reality—while temporary—could become increasingly difficult to ignore if results continue in Slot’s favour.
Mamardashvili steps up amid scrutiny
At the opposite end, Giorgi Mamardashvili produced a composed performance that steadied a Liverpool defence long in search of consistency. His reflex save from Matty Cash early on set the tone, while his confidence under pressure provided assurance to those in front of him.
The Georgian’s recent run in the side, forced by Alisson’s injury, has been turbulent, but this outing marked progress. His opposite number, Emiliano Martinez, endured a contrasting evening—his mistake directly contributing to Liverpool’s opener.
Virgil van Dijk’s leadership, coupled with a strong display from Andy Robertson on his return to the starting line-up, restored much-needed order. Conor Bradley’s energy on the right also injected balance into a back line that had looked uncertain in recent weeks.
Slot’s gamble finds short-term reward
This victory provided early validation for Slot’s controversial rotation policy, which had seen several senior players rested for the midweek League Cup defeat to Crystal Palace. It was a risk designed to reset focus on the league campaign—and on this evidence, it paid off.
Liverpool’s first clean sheet in 11 games, and only their second in 12 at Anfield across all competitions, marked an important milestone. It also lifted the team clear of a potentially historic slump—defeat would have equalled a 72-year-old record of five consecutive league losses.
For Slot, the performance was a timely reminder of what his side can achieve when discipline meets clarity. Yet as he looks ahead to back-to-back challenges against Real Madrid and Manchester City, the true measure of Liverpool’s progress will depend on whether he can translate short-term structure into long-term balance—and crucially, find the right place for Wirtz within it.
