Liverpool’s chaotic win at Nottingham Forest highlighted more than just resilience — it exposed a tactical issue that Arne Slot must address quickly.
Dominik Szoboszlai cannot continue to be deployed at right-back.
While Slot’s decision may have been influenced by injuries and availability, the first-half performance at the City Ground made one thing clear: Liverpool desperately needed Szoboszlai in midfield.
Midfield Overrun
Forest dominated large spells of the opening 45 minutes. Liverpool lacked control, energy, and creativity through the centre. The passing was slow, the pressing disjointed, and the Reds struggled to progress the ball with purpose.
Szoboszlai’s best attributes — driving runs, forward passing, intensity — were largely wasted from a deeper defensive role.
The In-Game Correction Says It All
Slot’s reshuffle before half-time told its own story. With Liverpool struggling, Szoboszlai was pushed back into midfield and Curtis Jones moved to right-back.
That switch was effectively an admission that Liverpool needed more authority in the middle of the pitch.
And once Szoboszlai moved inside, Liverpool looked slightly more balanced.
A Creative Void Still Unfilled
With Trent Alexander-Arnold no longer in the side, Liverpool are already missing creativity from deep. Removing Szoboszlai from midfield only compounds that problem.
If Slot wants control, energy and forward momentum, Szoboszlai must start centrally. Liverpool cannot afford to weaken one department just to patch another.
The Forest performance should serve as a warning: square pegs in round holes disrupt rhythm — and against stronger opponents, the consequences could be far worse.
Jamie (The Kopite View)