The midfield was a pivotal component of Klopp’s Liverpool and once the perfect balance was established, Liverpool flourished. Slot places equal onus on his midfield, albeit implementing different ideologies.
Liverpool’s midfield currently comprises of Gravenberch, Mac Allister and Szoboszlai. However, we are yet to see the perfect culmination of profiles suited to Slot’s system…
Despite Gravenberch performing well, as predominantly the deepest player in Slot’s double pivot, Liverpool still lack a metronome in the heart of midfield who can orchestrate the tempo and juxtapose Liverpools direct nature, as well as provide stability in duels.
Whilst Szoboszlai has provided immense work rate out of possession, a Slot #10 is ideally a high volume chance creator and tempo-orchestrator, to accommodate this, the #10 should be tasked with less running (which should be implemented with a stronger pressing/OOP structure).
Although we are yet to see Szoboszlai’s full creative capabilities, Szoboszlai’s profile differs to that of an Elliott, who seems more suited to the #10 role due to his absurd output and chance creation. However, his athleticism and angle bias could cap his ceiling and ability to assert himself as a starting level player especially if Slot values (Szoboszlai’s) duels/workrate and therefore, alongside a #6, Liverpool could also look to recruit a #10.
Whilst Mac Allister, is regarded as Liverpools best performing midfielder, there lacks a perfect role for him in Liverpools most balanced and highest ceiling side. As Gravenberch, Jones (although he has a lower ceiling than the others mentioned) and Bajcetic all seem the most complimentary options as the advanced double pivot (All possessing elite B2B skill sets such as devastating ball carrying, engine and prowess in duels, providing the perfect midfield balance).
To conclude, Liverpool undoubtedly need a #6. A player of a similar ilk, if not, their summer target Zubimendi. Liverpool have a plethora of quality options for the B2B and #10 role and depending on development could have a long term solution in both areas.
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