Liverpool’s New-Look Attack Faces a Tactical Puzzle
Liverpool’s rebuild under Arne Slot has brought both excitement and uncertainty. With a host of summer signings including Florian Wirtz (£116m), Alexander Isak, and Hugo Ekitike, the Reds boast one of the Premier League’s most intriguing new attacking line-ups.
But as the season unfolds, the chemistry isn’t quite clicking yet. Dwight Yorke, the former Manchester United striker, believes he’s spotted the root of the issue — and his diagnosis has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike.
According to Yorke, Wirtz’s presence may actually be blocking Liverpool’s most natural attacking solution.
Yorke’s Verdict: “The Problem Liverpool Have Got Is Florian Wirtz”
Speaking in an interview with Snabbare, Yorke claimed that Slot already has the players to form a devastating strike duo — if he’s willing to take a tactical risk.
He argued that Isak and Ekitike could replicate the telepathic understanding that he once shared with Andy Cole at Manchester United.
“Isak could be the nine. Ekitike can play wide. But you won’t know until Slot tries it,” Yorke said. “The problem Liverpool have got is Florian Wirtz. That might cause a bit of an issue because of the money he’s come in on too.”
Yorke’s point is simple: Liverpool’s attack feels unbalanced when all three play together. Wirtz prefers to operate between the lines, slowing the tempo and linking play, while Isak and Ekitike thrive in more direct transitions.
Yorke Draws Parallels with His Iconic Cole Partnership
Yorke also reflected on his own experiences under Sir Alex Ferguson, where natural partnerships emerged through competition and complementary traits.
“Coley wasn’t hateful of me coming in,” Yorke recalled. “We pushed each other. I was the expensive new signing, but I had to prove myself. We had wingers flying down the flanks, and our understanding just worked. Liverpool’s players can find that too.”
The Trinidadian insists that Liverpool’s current dilemma could resolve itself once Slot gives Isak and Ekitike time to develop on-field chemistry — but it may require benching Wirtz, at least temporarily.
Slot’s Tactical Balancing Act
Slot’s system is still a work in progress. The Dutchman has experimented with various shapes — from 4-2-3-1 to 4-3-3 hybrids — but the front-line structure remains unsettled.
With injuries disrupting midfield and wide options, the temptation to shoehorn all three attackers in has been understandable. Yet, Yorke’s comments underscore a growing belief: Liverpool might need clarity, not compromise.
As one Anfield insider put it recently, “It’s not about who’s the best player; it’s about what combination works.”
If Slot can strike that balance, Liverpool could evolve into an unpredictable attacking force. If not, the risk of tactical congestion — and more frustrating performances — will continue to loom.
Wirtz Still Has a Crucial Role to Play
Despite Yorke’s claims, Liverpool remain confident in Wirtz’s long-term impact. The German international has shown creativity and intelligence, even if his adaptation to the Premier League’s pace has been uneven.
Slot reportedly sees Wirtz as a “tempo-setter” — someone capable of unlocking defences when the game slows down. But until his rhythm aligns with Liverpool’s high-tempo identity, critics like Yorke will continue to question his fit.
Conclusion: A Defining Test for Slot’s Man-Management
The coming months could define Arne Slot’s Liverpool era. Balancing marquee signings, maintaining dressing-room harmony, and unlocking an attacking identity reminiscent of Klopp’s chaos and control will be no small task.
Yorke’s words may sound provocative, but they echo a truth familiar to every successful manager: sometimes, brave tactical calls create legendary partnerships.
For Slot, that decision might come down to one question —
Can Liverpool’s future flourish with Wirtz at the centre, or without him?