Liverpool’s struggles with transitions remain a key talking point following the heavy defeat to PSV, and our manager’s latest comments have shed more light on why we faltered at Anfield. Speaking to CBS Sports Golazo, Arne Slot rejected the notion that PSV outclassed us entirely in transition, noting that the team’s first-half performance was closer to his expectations.
“I was really pleased with our reaction in transition during the first half,” the 47-year-old said. “Almost every time we regained possession, we were able to keep them pinned in their own half.”
However, his tone shifted when discussing the second half, where things unravelled.
“In the second half, especially at the start, we struggled,” he admitted. “I kept thinking, ‘what’s wrong with Hugo?’ It seemed like he couldn’t move the way he did earlier.”
Slot revealed that the French forward had been dealing with an issue from nearly the very start of the game.
“He told me within the first five to ten minutes that his back was bothering him, which is why he eventually had to come off.”
Ekitike’s injury adds a new layer of concern for Liverpool after the PSV defeat. Sky Sports’ live commentary had earlier praised the 23-year-old, stating, “Ekitike has justified his inclusion with a lively display,” highlighting how impactful he had been before leaving the pitch.
His absence increases pressure on Alexander Isak, who came on but struggled to make an impact, continuing a difficult adaptation period for the Swedish forward.
Other problem areas remain, such as left-back performance, with Adebayo Akinfenwa publicly criticizing Kerkez on X: “I’m sorry but Kerkez needs to do & be better. It’s really not good enough.”
These issues are reflected in the statistics, underlining that this run is Liverpool’s worst since 1953.
Slot’s comments on transitions emphasize a broader problem: the team’s structure becomes fragile when any part of the pressing unit falters. If Ekitike is sidelined and Isak is still finding form, Liverpool could lose one of the few forwards consistently stretching defences and leading the attack.
With Kerkez under scrutiny and several senior players out of form, the team will need to raise its collective level quickly. Slot was keen to point out that the first-half performance deserved recognition, but the second half remains a major worry as Liverpool look ahead to their clash with West Ham.
