Arne Slot deployed a system against PSG that we have not seen since he came to Liverpool — Ryan Gravenberch gave his thoughts.
Looking at the scoreline, you could say Liverpool’s game plan went somewhat well. Going to the Parc des Princes is no easy feat, and coming away with a two-goal deficit certainly isn’t the worst.
If you watched the game, though, you will know that Liverpool were extremely fortunate not to be down a lot more. Considering the defensive approach, the fact that PSG won the xG battle 2.35 to 0.17 suggests it didn’t quite work. Gravenberch alludes to that without going overly negative.
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2-0 down vs PSG, it's going to be some ask from here…
Jeremie Frimpong takes throw-in for Liverpool in front of Arne Slot
Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP via Getty Images
Ryan Gravenberch understands Arne Slot’s decision but isn’t convinced
Gravenberch himself had a mixed Champions League night. In the first half, his play was positive, attempting to drive Liverpool up the pitch from deep. His touch was loose, but the intent was at least there.
He quietened down in the second half, as his side were put under the kosh.
After the game, he was asked about Slot’s formation choice while talking to Liverpool media.
The Dutchman remarked: “Yeah, maybe to be a bit more secure in the back. We know that their wingers are really good in that. For example, one vs one, so maybe, yeah, a little bit more protection, for example, if Jeremie is in the one vs one, then Ibou can cover him.
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Photo by Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP via Getty Images
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“But overall, it was, even when we played with five, it was tough today.”
The logic behind going so defensive is clear, but to do it for the first time against the champions of Europe was a big call. The numbers say it didn’t pay off, and that seems to be what Gravenberch is suggesting as well.
Arne Slot has to go back to the norm against PSG at Anfield
Whatever about Slot taking a tactical gamble for a tough away trip like this one, when the tie returns to Anfield, he needs to scrap that idea.
It sends a message of fear to play like that at home, not to mention Liverpool are the ones who have to push the pace.
Obviously, if PSG score first, that’s curtains. But it’s a risk Slot will have to take.
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