Liverpool's summer transfer window has been one of the most intriguing in Premier League history. The club's strategy of signing multiple Bundesliga stars and replacing both full-backs suggests a significant tactical evolution, marking the end of the Jurgen Klopp era and the beginning of a new chapter.
The potential acquisition of Newcastle's Alexander Isak would propel Liverpool's transfer activities into uncharted territory, especially after securing Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt. Not since the days of traditional 4-4-2 formations have we witnessed a top club sign two elite strikers in the same window.
What exactly is Arne Slot planning? Here are five potential strategies:
An Ultra-Narrow 4-2-3-1 with Wirtz, Ekitike, and Salah Behind Isak
This formation could see Liverpool adopting a compressed 4-2-3-1, where Salah and Ekitike, nominally wingers, operate narrowly as number 10s alongside Florian Wirtz. The width would be provided by two dynamic full-backs. Jeremie Frimpong, an attacking right-back, could push Salah more centrally, while Ekitike often occupies number 10 positions even when starting as a striker.
This system allows fluid movement among the trio of number 10s. For instance, when Salah or Ekitike drifts wide, the other remains central with Wirtz, creating a box shape with Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch—an essential component in modern Premier League tactics. At times, Ekitike or Salah might advance to a center-forward role beside Isak, adjusting the box shape upward and connecting with two number 10s behind them. This could be the most dynamic approach Slot could utilize to incorporate all four players into his starting lineup, but it would signify a considerable departure from previous tactics.
Ekitike as a Left-Winger in Slot's Conventional 4-2-3-1
A simpler option would be to convert Ekitike into a replacement for Luis Diaz, assuming the Colombian forward completes his move to Bayern Munich. Although Ekitike has limited experience as a left-winger, his tendency to drift to that side, particularly during the 2023-24 season, aligns well with Slot's use of players like Cody Gapko and Diaz as one-on-one dribblers who cut inside from the wings.
In the Bundesliga last season, Ekitike ranked fifth for attempted dribbles and shot-ending carries, providing eight assists and ranking high in 'attacking sequence' involvements. He possesses the attributes to succeed as a Slot-style left-winger.
Ekitike and Isak Together in a 4-2-2-2 Formation
Ekitike's best performances at Frankfurt came in a strike partnership with Omar Marmoush, characterized by their fluid positional interchanges. This partnership propelled Frankfurt into a title challenge until Marmoush's departure. While Liverpool is unlikely to adopt a back three, a 4-2-2-2 formation could accommodate Isak and Ekitike together, albeit with some risk.
Slot's Liverpool often deploys a 4-2-4/4-4-2 without possession, with a 10 (Dominik Szoboszlai) acting as a third midfielder. However, this approach is more vulnerable through the middle, requiring a two-man midfield to cover space during quick counter-attacks. Playing Wirtz on the left, a position he's rarely occupied, adds complexity. This formation might be reserved for when Liverpool needs to chase a game.
Ekitike and Wirtz as Dual Eights in the De Bruyne and Silva Mould
Though unconventional, this idea could be effective. Wirtz is frequently compared to Kevin De Bruyne, and Ekitike's characteristics resemble those of De Bruyne's role at Manchester City. Ekitike could adapt to a hybrid eight/10 position alongside Wirtz, similar to how Pep Guardiola has used two aggressive eights in front of a number six.
Guardiola's influence on Slot is evident, and Liverpool's manager might be considering a tactical shift towards a City-esque 4-3-3. However, with Premier League football becoming more transitional, it is crucial to maintain a solid midfield base to counter quick attacks. While Gravenberch might not manage this alone, a 4-3-3 formation would be exciting to witness.
Ekitike as Competition for Multiple Forward Positions
It's unnecessary to force all new signings into a single lineup. Liverpool is expected to play over 60 games next season, requiring a rotating front line to maintain freshness and unpredictability. Ekitike, as a £69m option, could serve as a versatile backup for four different positions, even if Szoboszlai, competing with Wirtz, might disagree.
Considering injuries, rotational needs, and tactical adjustments, Ekitike could easily accumulate over 30 starts in all competitions, even if he isn't part of the perceived best XI. Elite clubs no longer adhere to the concept of a fixed 'best XI,' and Liverpool fans are well aware that the lineup they consider optimal rarely plays together.