Liverpool Additions Under Scrutiny as Walcott Assesses Man City Benchmark

Liverpool spent heavily in the summer and reshaped their squad for Arne Slot’s second campaign in charge. The club committed more than £450 million in the 2025-26 window, a level of investment that fuelled expectations of instant dominance. Performances have stabilised only in recent weeks, and the debate around how the new faces compare to Manchester City’s established elite continues to build.

Former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott has added his view on that comparison, noting that just one of the Reds signings would currently be good enough to break into a combined Liverpool and Man City line up. Speaking on the It’s Called Soccer Podcast, he outlined his preferred XI and it raised eyebrows across both fanbases.

Walcott Selects Isak as Liverpool’s Sole Representative Among New Arrivals

Some Liverpool recruits have adjusted quickly. Hugo Ekitike has offered immediate presence and energy in the forward line, while others are still navigating the transition into Slot’s system. This varied adaptation was reflected in Walcott’s selection, which included Alexander Isak as the only summer signing to make the combined team.

The former England international said the side would shape up as follows: Donnarumma, Szoboszlai, Stones, Van Dijk, Robertson, Rodri, Gravenberch, Foden, Salah, Haaland, Isak.

His omission of Ekitike was notable, given the young Frenchman’s early influence. However, Walcott emphasised that consistency and proven output across multiple competitions remained the decisive factors.

Slot Tactical Reset Brings Renewed Confidence Before Man City Clash

Liverpool’s season began with turbulence, and Slot struggled to identify a midfield configuration that echoed last year’s title winning rhythm. His decision to restore the previous campaign’s midfield trio has coincided with a return to structural clarity. The 1-0 victory against Real Madrid in midweek Champions League action has further lifted confidence.

Supporters approach Sunday’s meeting with Man City with optimism, buoyed by improved form and the growing cohesion of core players. Yet the conversation around how Liverpool’s rebuild compares to Pep Guardiola’s settled side shows no sign of slowing, particularly with City stars openly commenting on the scale of the challenge. As Erling Haaland put it, “stand a chance”.

Isak and Ekitike Pose Selection Puzzle for Liverpool Front Line

A recurring theme this season has been the managerial dilemma over who should lead the line. Both Isak and Ekitike present strong cases to start at number nine, offering contrasting qualities. Injuries have disrupted Isak’s momentum, and Ekitike has taken advantage with sharp movement and clinical touches.

One possibility for Slot is to adjust the front three shape. With Cody Gakpo struggling for form, the option of deploying Isak on the left has gained traction. His finishing intelligence, link play and ability to combine with Mohamed Salah could allow Liverpool to field both striking talents simultaneously. Although not the quickest wide forward, his spatial awareness and creativity may unlock a fresh dynamic in the final third.

A successful experiment would not only resolve a selection debate, it would also expand Liverpool’s tactical flexibility at a crucial stage of the season, reinforcing their challenge to Man City and helping justify the substantial summer investment.a