Liverpool’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League midweek showcased their attacking prowess, but it also unveiled a brewing selection dilemma for manager Arne Slot. According to a report from Spanish outlet AS, the Reds are grappling with a significant issue involving two of their star players: Mohamed Salah, the reigning Premier League Player of the Year, and £116m summer signing Florian Wirtz. The crux of the problem lies in how to integrate both players into the starting lineup without disrupting the team’s balance—a conundrum that could shape Liverpool’s season.
A Tactical Tug-of-War
The Frankfurt match saw Liverpool deploy a fluid formation, alternating between a 4-4-2 and a 4-2-2-2, with Wirtz operating on the right side in a slightly deeper role than Salah typically occupies. Notably, Salah, a mainstay in Liverpool’s attack, was benched for the second consecutive Champions League game. Wirtz, meanwhile, marked his first competitive goal involvements for the club, registering two assists in the rout. While the German playmaker’s contributions were a positive sign, they also sparked debate about how he fits alongside Salah.
The AS report suggests that Slot faces a tough decision: should he start Wirtz or Salah, or can both coexist in the same lineup? With Hugo Ekitike in scintillating form and deemed “almost undroppable,” and Cody Gakpo holding down the left flank, only one spot remains for an attack-minded player on the right. If Alexander Isak recovers from a minor groin injury to partner Ekitike up top, the selection headache intensifies, as Liverpool may stick with a formation that limits space for both Salah and Wirtz.
Salah vs. Wirtz: A Clash of Styles?
Mohamed Salah has been Liverpool’s talisman for years, consistently delivering goals and assists with remarkable efficiency. His role as a wide forward, cutting in from the right, is integral to the Reds’ attacking identity. However, Wirtz, a versatile and creative playmaker, brings a different dynamic. His ability to operate in central or wide areas, combined with his vision and passing, offers Slot tactical flexibility. Against Frankfurt, Wirtz’s assists highlighted his potential, though Slot himself downplayed their significance, noting that one was a simple square ball to Dominik Szoboszlai for a long-range strike.
Slot’s post-match comments shed light on the situation: “I find it a bit funny, his second assist we call that assist, and the 1-1 goal involvement against Man United isn’t one for him, which is more difficult to do than the 5-1.” He emphasized that Liverpool created similar chances in their recent loss to Manchester United, suggesting the team’s performance is less about individual contributions and more about clinical finishing and defensive solidity. Yet, the narrative around Wirtz’s growing influence and Salah’s bench role has fueled speculation of a potential conflict.
Formation Flexibility: A Solution or a Stopgap?
If Isak is unfit for Liverpool’s upcoming Premier League clash against Brentford, Slot may revert to a 4-2-3-1 formation, which could accommodate Gakpo, Wirtz, and Salah behind Ekitike. This setup would likely see Salah return to his familiar right-wing role, with Wirtz operating centrally as a No. 10. However, if Isak is available, Slot may opt for a two-striker system, forcing him to choose between Salah and Wirtz for the right-sided role. This decision could set the tone for how Liverpool balance their attacking riches moving forward.
The challenge lies in ensuring neither player feels marginalized. Salah, at 33, remains a world-class talent, and his experience is vital for a team chasing silverware on multiple fronts. Wirtz, meanwhile, represents Liverpool’s future—a £116m investment expected to drive the club’s next era of success. Slot’s ability to manage their roles will be crucial, as alienating either player could disrupt team harmony.
Broader Context: Liverpool’s Evolving Squad
Beyond the Salah-Wirtz dilemma, Liverpool are navigating other challenges. TEAMtalk reports that the club is eyeing Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, with exclusive details on his release clause and Bournemouth’s stance. Additionally, a summer signing is reportedly set to make his debut against a formidable opponent, while another player regrets a move away from Anfield. These developments highlight the constant flux within Liverpool’s squad as Slot molds the team in his image.
What’s Next for Slot?
As Liverpool prepare to face Brentford, all eyes will be on Slot’s team sheet. Will he stick with the in-form Wirtz, reward Salah’s proven quality, or find a way to incorporate both? The Frankfurt performance showed Liverpool’s attacking potential, but it also exposed the delicate balancing act Slot must perform. With the Premier League title race heating up and the Champions League demanding consistency, resolving this “major conflict” will be pivotal.
For now, the drama surrounding Salah and Wirtz underscores a classic football problem: how to fit multiple stars into a cohesive unit. Slot’s tactical acumen and man-management skills will be tested as he seeks to keep Liverpool firing on all cylinders. One thing is certain—whether it’s Salah’s clinical finishing or Wirtz’s creative spark, Liverpool’s attacking depth is both a blessing and a challenge.
