Liverpool’s pre-season win over Sevilla at Anfield provided plenty of talking points and insights into Arne Slot’s tactics and team selection. As the first Premier League campaign under Slot approaches, the game against Sevilla served as a dress rehearsal for the upcoming match against Ipswich.
Slot’s team selection for the Sevilla game likely indicates his strongest starting XI for the Premier League opener. Jarell Quansah was chosen over Ibrahima Konate, and Ryan Gravenberch played in the no.6 role. With Andy Robertson not fully fit, Kostas Tsimikas is expected to start as well. It’s worth noting that players like Quansah, Tsimikas, Dominik Szoboszlai, Mo Salah, and Diogo Jota played the full 90 minutes, suggesting their importance in Slot’s plans.
One notable aspect of the game was Gravenberch’s performance in the no.6 role. The Dutchman showcased his ability to control the midfield, contributing to both the build-up play and defensive stability. He completed 95% of his passes, showcasing his passing accuracy. However, Liverpool may still need to invest in a more natural holding midfielder despite Gravenberch’s impressive audition.
Another observation was Trent Alexander-Arnold’s role under Slot. Unlike in Jurgen Klopp’s final season, Alexander-Arnold was less inclined to invert into the middle of the park. Instead, he focused on staying closer to the right flank, making shorter and more incisive passes. Slot seems to have found a balance in utilizing Alexander-Arnold’s skillset effectively.
The emergence of an advanced midfielder was evident in Liverpool’s third goal against Sevilla. Dominik Szoboszlai, who played in that role, made a brilliant forward run and set up Luis Diaz for the goal. Harvey Elliott had previously excelled in the same position during Liverpool’s tour to the USA. This shows Slot’s preference for an advanced midfielder who can contribute to the team’s attacking play.
Diogo Jota continued to impress, scoring a sublime goal and providing an assist for Diaz. Jota has already contributed two assists and one goal in three pre-season matches, averaging a goal contribution every 66 minutes. His ability to drop back, press the opposition, and involve himself in the build-up makes him an ideal forward in Slot’s system.
While it’s important not to overreact to pre-season performances, these early signs are promising for Slot’s style of play and the individual performances of players like Jota. Liverpool fans can expect an exciting and fruitful season ahead if these trends continue.