Liverpool’s 2024/25 season so far has been a blend of resilience, tactical evolution, and standout performances that have fans optimistic about their title aspirations. Under Slot, the Reds have regained much of the energy and control of the games that defines his philosophy, blending it with the creative flair of a reimagined midfield.

Liverpool has shown a strong run of form in the Premier League, mounting a serious challenge to Manchester City and Arsenal. After last season’s where Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai have been pivotal. Now Gravenberg has added himself as an important figure for Liverpool in being a strong connection with the defence and the attacking force. He also added calmness and control to Liverpool’s midfield, a key area that needed revitalising.

The return to form of Mohamed Salah has been another highlight. Not only is he delivering goals and assists consistently, but his leadership and experience have been critical in guiding a relatively young team. Trent Alexander-Arnold, playing an inverted role at times, continues to showcase his playmaking brilliance.

Yesterday’s game showcased a fascinating tactical duel between Arne Slot and Pep Guardiola. It was a match that underlined Slot’s growing reputation as one of football’s most innovative minds, while Guardiola’s City found themselves outmanoeuvred in key moments.

First Half: Arne Slot’s Liverpool started the game with an aggressive 4-3-3 system, emphasising high pressing and fluid attacking movement. The midfield trio, led by the ever-reliable Dominik Szoboszlai, suffocated City’s build-up play, making it difficult for Gundogan and Lewis to dictate the tempo. Slot’s hallmark—a blend of positional play and attacking transitions—was evident throughout the first half speed of Salah Gakpo and Diaz. 

Manchester City, as expected, dominated possession, with Guardiola employing a 3-2-4-1 structure. However, Slot’s compact defensive organisation forced City’s wide players, Matheus Nunes and Bernardo Silva, into less effective areas. Liverpool’s aggressive pressing, particularly from Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboslai, disrupted City’s rhythm, leaving Erling Haaland isolated for large parts of the half.

The breakthrough came in the 35th minute. A sweeping Liverpool counterattack, initiated by Trent Alexander-Arnold’s switch of play, found Mohamed Salah in space. Salah’s precise cross was met by Cody Gakpo, who arrived at the far post to give Liverpool the lead.

Guardiola adjusted in the second half, introducing Savinho, Doku and later the Bruyne to add creativity and width, but Slot responded brilliantly. He instructed Liverpool to adopt a more compact 4-4-2 defensive block, frustrating City’s attempts to penetrate through the middle. Slot’s in-game management was on full display, as Liverpool adapted to Guardiola’s tweaks in adding Nunez for energy and getting them out of the press, and also adding Quansah to deal with Doku’s speed. This showed that Slot was happy with 2-0 but wanted to make sure that his team could win the ball back and push city back. 

This game was a chess match between two of football’s most cerebral managers. 

Key aspects of Slot’s approach:

Targeting City’s High Line: Liverpool’s attackers repeatedly exploited City’s high defensive line with well-timed runs.

Set-Piece Threat: Slot’s Liverpool have become lethal from set pieces.

This match not only highlighted Liverpool’s resurgence under Slot but also added a new chapter to the tactical rivalry between two brilliant footballing minds.