Hamann raises concerns over Liverpool defence in Bournemouth clash

Hamann questions Liverpool’s defensive control

Liverpool opened their Premier League title defence with a dramatic 4-2 victory against Bournemouth at Anfield, but the performance left former midfielder Didi Hamann unconvinced about their defensive stability.

Despite racing into a two-goal lead through summer signings and looking in command during the first half, Arne Slot’s side were pegged back as Bournemouth fought their way back into the contest. It required late goals to secure the three points, but Hamann highlighted what he considered worrying flaws in Liverpool’s back line.

He suggested two new recruits in particular looked “fragile” and argued that without a clear sense of control, the Reds were left exposed.

Slot’s full-backs under scrutiny

Four new arrivals made their Premier League debuts against Bournemouth, including two in the full-back positions. While the attacking influence of these players was visible, Hamann was more concerned with their defensive discipline.

“Over 90 minutes they never really looked in control,” Hamann explained in his assessment. “It was end-to-end, and Liverpool gave up too many opportunities. If you can’t control games without the ball, then you struggle to dictate with it.”

The former Germany international pointed to difficulties faced by both full-backs. One was praised for his power and pace going forward but questioned as a natural right-back. The other, Hamann felt, had struggled across his early outings and looked vulnerable under sustained pressure.

Adjusting to life without Alexander-Arnold

For Hamann, Liverpool’s transition is about more than bedding in new signings. The absence of a long-serving figure at right-back, who departed in the summer for Real Madrid, has fundamentally altered the way the side builds play.

Last season, much of Liverpool’s dominance came from control in possession and their ability to tire out opponents before striking late. With their former full-back, they possessed one of the league’s most accomplished ball players, someone capable of stretching the pitch simply by being on it.

Hamann suggested that defenders no longer have the same fear factor when facing Liverpool. The passing range once on display forced opposition lines to drop deeper, creating more time and space for midfielders and forwards. Without that influence, the team’s dynamic has inevitably changed.

Slot defends his substitutions

Slot, who withdrew both full-backs around the hour mark before Bournemouth mounted their comeback, explained the reasoning behind his decisions. One had been carrying a hamstring issue and the manager was reluctant to risk him further, especially with other full-backs already sidelined. The other, playing on a yellow card, was seen as a liability against a direct opponent.

The replacements initially appeared logical, yet within minutes Bournemouth reduced the deficit and Liverpool’s defensive line looked unsettled.

Despite Hamann’s concerns, it should be noted that the Reds did not concede while either of the new full-backs were on the pitch. That fact will provide some reassurance for Slot as he looks to mould his side.

Liverpool travel to Newcastle next, where their defensive organisation will once again be tested against a team known for its intensity and direct style. Whether Hamann’s fears prove valid over the longer term may depend on how quickly the new recruits adapt to the Premier League’s demands.