Arne Slot Explains Mohamed Salah’s Dip in Form Amid Liverpool’s Tactical Evolution
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has acknowledged that Mohamed Salah is not currently performing at his usual elite level — but insists the Egyptian’s dip in form is a byproduct of tactical changes affecting the entire team.
Salah has registered three goals and three assists in nine appearances this season — respectable figures for most forwards, but a noticeable drop compared to last year’s exceptional campaign, when he tallied 34 goals and 23 assists across all competitions. In fact, the winger has found the net only five times in his last 20 matches, a rare lull for a player renowned for his consistency.
Asked about the issue, Slot explained that Salah’s reduced output stems less from personal form and more from the team’s evolving tactical setup and the way opponents have adapted to Liverpool’s style.
“It’s similar to the second part of last season,” Slot said. “He scored 12 goals then, but only six were from open play — the rest came from penalties or set pieces. The difference now is how teams approach us. They defend deeper and avoid building from the back.”
The Dutch coach noted that teams such as Manchester United have adjusted their approach, opting for long passes rather than playing through Liverpool’s press — reducing the Reds’ chances to win the ball high and create quick transitions.
“That’s one of the main reasons it’s harder for us to score from open play,” Slot added. “Mo is part of that pattern, just like Florian or Cody. It’s something we’re working on every day.”
Slot also pointed to Liverpool’s switch from a 4-3-3 to a 4-2-3-1 formation this season — a structural shift designed to accommodate a more creative No.10, such as Florian Wirtz. While the change adds tactical variety, it has temporarily affected the team’s attacking fluidity.
Despite the current challenges, Slot expressed confidence that both Salah and Liverpool will soon rediscover their sharpness in front of goal:
“As we grow more comfortable in this new setup, our rhythm will return. It’s just about connecting all the pieces.”
While some supporters have voiced concern over Salah’s recent displays, Slot’s comments make clear that the issue lies not in individual decline, but in Liverpool’s wider tactical transition — a process he believes will soon pay off
