Liverpool FC 2024/25 Season Preview: Tactical Shifts and Key Player Insights from the Under Pressure Podcast
The 2024/25 season for Liverpool FC promises to be one of significant tactical evolution and strategic refinement under Arnie Slot. This was the focal point of the recent Under Pressure podcast on Anfield Index, where hosts Si, Darth, and Hamza KH provided an in-depth analysis of Liverpool’s pre-season developments, tactical adjustments, and the potential impact on key players.
Tactical Evolution: Press-Baiting and Structural Adjustments
One of the most discussed topics on the podcast was the tactical evolution of Liverpool’s play, particularly the adoption of a more controlled and deliberate style compared to the “heavy metal” football synonymous with Klopp’s earlier tenure. Hamza KH highlighted that “Liverpool is now more patient in building up phases, drawing the opponent forward, and then striking quickly.” This shift is reflected in the team’s preference for a “4-2 structure” in the backline, excluding the goalkeeper, with the aim of baiting the press and creating opportunities to exploit spaces behind the opposition.
Darth added further context, explaining that this method is “more De Zerbi-esque in trying to draw opponents forward and then playing through them.” The panel agreed that this more cautious approach could be pivotal in avoiding the pitfalls of previous seasons, where Liverpool’s high-risk pressing occasionally left them vulnerable to counter-attacks.
Patterns of Play and Midfield Dynamics
The midfield’s role in this new system is equally critical. Si noted that “Liverpool’s midfield pressing traps are now more reserved, guiding opponents gently towards pressing traps before executing a more aggressive phase.” This approach contrasts with the more relentless pressing seen in earlier seasons, where the focus was on winning the ball back as quickly as possible. Instead, the emphasis now is on maintaining structure and ensuring that pressing is done intelligently to avoid leaving gaps in the defence.
Hamza also pointed out the importance of midfielders adapting to this new style, with players like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alexis Mac Allister playing crucial roles in the buildup phase. The introduction of Wataru Endo as a potential No. 6 was discussed, with Hamza emphasizing that while Endo might not be the ideal long-term solution, “he’s serviceable alongside more technical players like Mac Allister and Trent, allowing Liverpool to reach a very good level even if it’s not perfect.”
Player Focus: Square Pegs in Round Holes?
Most of the discussion centred on how specific players might fit into this evolving system. The panel expressed concerns about certain players potentially being “square pegs in round holes,” particularly in the No. 6 role. However, Hamza argued that it would be unwise to overspend on a player unless they were truly top-tier, advising that Liverpool should look to optimize their current squad instead.
When it comes to attacking dynamics, the podcast delved into the roles of Darwin Núñez and Diogo Jota. Darth raised an interesting debate on whether Núñez, as a club-record signing, would become the first-choice striker despite Jota potentially being the more effective option. He remarked, “The narrative changes all the time, and until Darwin’s volley the other night, many still saw Jota as the more reliable option.” This uncertainty around the striker position reflects broader questions about how Slot will balance his attacking options, particularly with the tactical shifts in place.
Predictions and Final Thoughts
As the podcast concluded, the hosts touched on their predictions for the season, acknowledging that while Liverpool’s squad might be similar to last season’s, subtle improvements and the integration of new tactical approaches could yield better results. “The biggest thing,” Darth said, “is that players like Jarell Quansah are now part of the centre-back rotation, adding depth to a crucial area.”
Overall, the “Under Pressure” podcast provided a comprehensive breakdown of what Liverpool fans can expect in the upcoming season. From tactical nuances to player roles, the panel’s insights painted a picture of a team in transition, one that is poised to challenge on multiple fronts if the pieces fall into place.
