Slot’s Bold Decision Pays Off: Konate’s Impact and Alexander-Arnold’s Role Change
Arne Slot made a surprising substitution in Liverpool’s first competitive game, replacing Jarell Quansah with Ibrahima Konate at halftime. Slot’s decision raised eyebrows, especially since Quansah wasn’t injured. However, Slot later explained that he needed Konate’s ability to win aerial duels against Ipswich’s No. 9, as the team was losing too many duels in the first half.
In terms of statistics, Quansah won 50% of his duels, while Konate won 80% in their respective playing times. Konate’s introduction brought stability to Liverpool’s defense, but it wasn’t a simple like-for-like change. Ipswich expended a lot of energy in the first half, which led to a drop-off in their performance in the second half. This drop-off, combined with Konate’s presence, allowed Liverpool to gain control of the game.
Slot took inspiration from Jurgen Klopp’s tactics last season, particularly Trent Alexander-Arnold’s role as an inverted right-back. Konate’s speed and dominance on the right side gave Alexander-Arnold the freedom to push forward and play killer passes. Alexander-Arnold’s touch maps in the first and second halves of the game show how his role changed. In the first half, he was more involved in defensive areas, but in the second half, he had more variation in his touches and was less involved defensively.
Alexander-Arnold played a crucial role in setting up Slot’s favorite chance of the game, combining with Dominik Szoboszlai, Diogo Jota, and Luis Diaz. Although Diaz failed to convert the chance, Slot expressed his desire to see more of these attacking moves from the team. Alexander-Arnold also provided a traditional assist with a cross for Jota’s goal.
After Salah put Liverpool 2-0 up, Alexander-Arnold was substituted for Conor Bradley, who continued to play in an advanced position. Bradley was involved in three moves in Ipswich’s box, including two shots on goal and one missed big chance. Slot’s halftime switch allowed Liverpool to suffocate their opposition and maintain control of the game.
Slot’s decision to replace Quansah may have caused some disappointment for the young defender, but the coach will surely explain the tactical reasons behind the substitution. Slot emphasized the healthy competition for a spot alongside Van Dijk, indicating that the decision was not personal.
Consistency is crucial for a solid defense, but Slot has shown that he is willing to make calculated decisions during games to address tactical flaws. His decision to bring on Konate and change Alexander-Arnold’s role paid off against Ipswich, allowing Liverpool to gain control and change the course of the game in their favor.