The recent transfer windows have illustrated the ongoing challenges facing Liverpool. They secured a striker but missed key defensive targets, leaving a gap in their current lineup.
Arne Slot’s squad now faces immediate pressure. Newly signed Alexander Isak is sidelined by injury, while Jeremy Jacquet will come on board only in the summer. The loss of Marc Guehi, who will now play for Manchester City when they meet Liverpool this Sunday, adds more stress. Lutsharel Geertruida was also a target for Slot, but attempts to bring him from RB Leipzig through Sunderland were unsuccessful.
This situation places Dominik Szoboszlai in a challenging position—expected to fill a right-back role despite his prior performances as a false nine against City last year. Liverpool has made future-oriented transfer moves, but immediate needs remain unmet. As injuries mount, Slot’s task of keeping his remaining players healthy becomes increasingly precarious.
Long-term injuries to Giovanni Leoni, Conor Bradley, and Jeremie Frimpong intensify Liverpool’s dilemma. Joe Gomez, another frequent casualty, may only find himself on the bench, while Ibrahima Konate returned early from compassionate leave to help against Newcastle last week. In recent matches, the team has deployed three different midfielders in their back four. Critics highlight a lack of urgency in addressing these pressing issues, leaving Slot without adequate personnel.
“I’m very happy with the squad, let that be clear,” Slot stated. “But it’s clear that we have three long-term injuries. That’s why we’ve tried to strengthen the squad in winter. The player you mentioned, Geertruida, wasn’t available in the end. It’s obvious we attempted to bolster the team; we believed it was necessary. Yet, we can’t bring in players who aren’t capable of fitting into our plans.”
Interestingly, Liverpool deemed Guehi sufficient, having placed a £35 million bid over the summer. However, they delayed their efforts too long, causing Crystal Palace to withdraw their agreement due to an inability to find a replacement. Their inactivity allowed City to secure Guehi for a mere £20 million in January—a decision many argue should have been reconsidered, especially with Konate’s inconsistent season.
Manchester City’s ability to offer higher wages combined with transfer fees has given them an edge. Liverpool appears focused on future potential, having secured Jacquet for £55 million, who at just 20 shows immense promise. “A very big talent,” noted Slot. Alongside him, they are acquiring several centre-backs under 21, all in search of a successor for Virgil van Dijk, even as Slot hints that the captain might stay longer than his contract’s remaining 16 months.
“This club is not naïve,” he asserted. “We understand there will be a time when we transition away from Van Dijk.” However, currently, the team leans heavily on their captain, who has played every minute in all 32 Premier League and Champions League matches this season. “It’s impressive at his age to perform every few days,” remarked Slot.
For Liverpool, having Van Dijk available is a relief. Should he fall to injury, Slot’s role becomes considerably more difficult. “If we face another injury crisis, that will complicate matters. We are aware of the situation, but I believe this squad can achieve more. However, to do that, everyone needs to remain available, which will be a monumental challenge with three matches in seven days ahead.”
In contrast, City displayed agility when facing injury with John Stones, Josko Gvardiol, and Ruben Dias by acquiring Guehi. A player long sought by both teams, Guehi’s experience and immediate impact availability gave City the upper hand.
While Jacquet must acclimate upon joining, he and other younger players could ultimately become the next wave to step into key roles, succeeding Van Dijk and Konate.
For now, Slot cannot utilize either. Despite this, he stands firm in support of Liverpool’s long-term strategy. “I have always worked similarly, wanting what’s best for the club, even if that may not be convenient for me immediately,” he expressed. “I knew the club’s approach; it aims to sign talented youth.”
The present predicament suggests that had Slot been able to secure Guehi and Geertruida, the outcomes might look different for Liverpool.
