Liverpool's Crossroads: Selection Crises Loom as Title Defenses Hang in Balance

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot faces critical decisions on team selection following a disappointing loss to Manchester United. Full-back choices, Mo Salah's position, and the debut of Florian Wirtz are among the pressing issues as the Reds seek to regain momentum.

By Chris Posiano

October 22, 2025 at 12:46 PM

9,693 views

Liverpool's recent 2-1 defeat to Manchester United at Anfield has thrown the team into a period of uncertainty, with head coach Arne Slot under pressure to address key selection concerns. The loss marks Liverpool's fourth consecutive defeat in all competitions, the first time since under Brendan Rodgers in November 2014. This difficult run has intensified Slot's need to find solutions to the team's persistent struggles.

One of the most pressing issues facing Slot is the selection of the best full-backs. Milos Kerkez and Conor Bradley have struggled to impress this season, with Kerkez receiving a lowly 5 in the Sky Sports player ratings. Slot may consider giving the experienced Andy Robertson a chance to prove himself in the role. Meanwhile, on the right side, Slot may opt for Dominik Szoboszlai as a makeshift right-back instead of the inexperienced Bradley, who has struggled to adapt to the role vacated by Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Another key decision for Slot is whether to drop Mo Salah from the starting lineup. The Egyptian international has been a cornerstone of Liverpool's success in recent years, but his form has dipped this season. With the pressure mounting, Slot may need to consider benching Salah in favor of a fresh approach, potentially giving way to a young talent like Florian Wirtz, who has yet to make his debut for the first team.

Additionally, Slot faces the dilemma of managing the fitness and form of key midfielders. Alexis MacAllister, who was a crucial player in last season's title-winning campaign, has struggled with injury this season and has not yet regained his top form. With the team in need of a spark, Slot may consider giving Curtis Jones, who impressed after replacing MacAllister in the latest match, a more permanent place in the starting lineup.

With two crucial matches against Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League and Brentford in the Premier League looming, Slot must find answers to these selection concerns quickly. The fate of Liverpool's season may hinge on the tactical decisions made in the coming days and weeks.

As the pressure mounts, it remains to be seen whether Arne Slot can navigate these challenges and steer Liverpool back towards success. The upcoming fixtures will be a critical test for the team, and the decisions made in the coming days will undoubtedly play a significant role in determining their fate in the Premier League and Champions League.