Liverpool has emerged as the team to beat in the 2024-25 Premier League season under new manager Arne Slot. After a blistering start to the campaign, Liverpool has shown no signs of slowing down. With remarkable victories over top-tier opponents like Real Madrid and Manchester City, their dominance has sparked serious conversations about their potential to reclaim the Premier League title and establish themselves as one of Europe’s elite clubs once again.
This article dives into the factors behind Liverpool’s meteoric rise this season, their tactical brilliance under Slot, and the challenges their rivals face in keeping up.
A Flawless Squad: Depth and Versatility
One of Liverpool’s greatest strengths this season is their unparalleled squad depth. Injuries, which would typically weaken any team, have barely scratched the surface of their momentum.
Take Alisson Becker, one of the best goalkeepers in the world, for instance. He has been sidelined since October, yet Liverpool has thrived with Caoimhin Kelleher between the sticks. Kelleher’s composure, shot-stopping abilities, and accurate distribution have ensured that Liverpool remains impenetrable at the back.
Similarly, when defensive stalwarts like Ibrahima Konaté and Conor Bradley were ruled out, Liverpool seamlessly adapted. Players like Joe Gomez and Virgil van Dijk stepped up, maintaining the defensive solidity that has been a hallmark of their game. This flexibility is critical as Liverpool heads into the busy festive period, where squad rotation becomes essential to sustaining form.
Midfield: From Concern to Core Strength
Liverpool’s midfield was an area of concern before the season began, especially after their unsuccessful attempt to sign Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. However, this area has turned into a major asset.
The addition of players like Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister has injected fresh energy, creativity, and precision into their midfield. These players, alongside Ryan Gravenberch and Curtis Jones, have embodied Slot’s pressing philosophy. Their ability to win the ball back quickly, create chances, and contribute defensively has been pivotal.
In the match against Manchester City, Liverpool’s midfield completely dominated their counterparts. The pressing was relentless, forcing errors, and enabling Liverpool to dictate the game’s tempo. Such performances demonstrate how crucial the midfield is to Slot’s tactical setup.
Tactical Brilliance: Slot’s Blueprint for Success
Replacing a legend like Jürgen Klopp was always going to be a daunting task. Klopp’s achievements, including Liverpool’s first Premier League title in 30 years and their sixth Champions League trophy, set an incredibly high bar. However, Arne Slot has proven to be the perfect successor.
Slot has brought a tactical philosophy that prioritizes high pressing, quick transitions, and fluid attacking football. Unlike many teams that rely heavily on one or two players, Liverpool’s attack is a collective effort.
Pressing and Energy
The hallmark of Slot’s Liverpool is their pressing game. Every player, from the forwards to the defenders, contributes to winning the ball high up the pitch. This was evident in their 2-0 victory over Manchester City, where Liverpool’s relentless pressure forced City into errors.
Flexibility in Attack
Liverpool’s front line has also been lethal. Mohamed Salah, as always, remains a key figure, but the likes of Luis Díaz, Cody Gakpo, and Diogo Jota have added variety to their attacking options. With each player capable of playing multiple positions, Liverpool’s attack is unpredictable and difficult to contain.
Key Victories That Define Their Dominance
Real Madrid: A Statement Win
Liverpool’s 3-1 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League was a masterclass in counterattacking football. It was not just about the goals but the manner in which Liverpool outplayed the Spanish giants in every department.
Manchester City: A Tactical Masterpiece
Against Manchester City, Liverpool showcased their superiority in every aspect of the game. The midfield overpowered City’s, the defense neutralized Erling Haaland, and the attack created numerous chances. The scoreline of 2-0 could have easily been 4-0 or 5-0 had Liverpool been more clinical in the final third.
These victories are not just about gaining points but also about sending a message to the rest of Europe: Liverpool is back at their best.
Challenges for Rivals
Manchester City: Struggling for Identity
Pep Guardiola’s City seems far from their dominant best. Their defensive frailties and lack of creativity in midfield have been exposed repeatedly this season. Even with a player of Erling Haaland’s caliber, City has struggled to find consistency.
Haaland’s recent dip in form—just two goals in his last eight Premier League games—highlights a deeper issue. The lack of service and creativity from midfielders like Phil Foden and Matheus Nunes has left City looking one-dimensional.
Arsenal: Building Momentum
Arsenal, led by Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard, is showing promise. Their dynamic attack and solid defense make them Liverpool’s closest challengers. However, the 11-point gap between the two teams is a significant hurdle.
Chelsea: Fresh but Inconsistent
Under Enzo Maresca, Chelsea has shown flashes of brilliance, especially with their strategy of rotating players in European competitions. However, their inconsistency in the league has kept them from mounting a serious title challenge.
The Road Ahead
Liverpool’s biggest challenge will come during the festive period, where the congested fixture schedule tests even the best squads. However, with their strength in depth and tactical flexibility, they are well-equipped to navigate this critical phase of the season.
If Liverpool can maintain their current form, they are not just favorites for the Premier League title but also strong contenders in the Champions League.
Conclusion: The Real Deal
Liverpool’s transformation under Arne Slot has been nothing short of extraordinary. With depth, tactical brilliance, and a squad firing on all cylinders, they have set a standard that few teams can match.
As Shearer aptly puts it, “Liverpool are the real deal.” If their rivals cannot find a way to slow them down soon, this season might be remembered as one of Liverpool’s most dominant campaigns in history.
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