Arne Slots big mistake at Liverpool this season? Failing to drop struggling Salah | Barney Ronay

Published: Tuesday, November 11, 2025 at 8:00 am

Liverpool's Salah Conundrum: A Managerial Misstep?

Liverpool's recent struggles have sparked debate, with the spotlight firmly on manager Arne Slot and his handling of star player Mohamed Salah. The core issue, according to this analysis, is Slot's continued selection of Salah despite a noticeable decline in performance, particularly against stronger opponents.

Since February, Liverpool has faced a series of tough matches, losing the majority. During these games, Salah has been a consistent presence, yet his contributions have been minimal, often appearing as a "ghost" on the field. This has led to a noticeable imbalance in the team, particularly in terms of physicality. Liverpool, once known for its intensity, now struggles against more powerful opponents, with Salah's lack of defensive contribution leaving teammates exposed. This has negatively impacted the performance of players like Conor Bradley and Ibrahima Konat, forcing them to compensate for Salah's weaknesses.

The analysis suggests that this situation is hindering Slot's efforts to rebuild the team. The current lineup, heavily reliant on Salah, is creating an imbalance that affects other players and potentially jeopardizes the team's future. The author questions the motivations behind Slot's unwavering faith in Salah, speculating on potential power dynamics or external pressures.

The upcoming international break offers a crucial opportunity for Slot to reassess his strategy. With Salah soon departing for the Africa Cup of Nations, the manager has a chance to re-evaluate the team's composition and prioritize merit and future needs. The author emphasizes the urgency of this decision, suggesting that the time to act is now.

BNN's Perspective:

While the analysis raises valid concerns about team balance and player selection, it's important to acknowledge the complexities of managing a team with a star player. Striking a balance between honoring past achievements and building for the future is a delicate task. We believe that Slot should carefully consider the points raised in this analysis and make decisions that prioritize the overall success of the team, even if it means making tough choices.

Keywords: Arne Slot, Mohamed Salah, Liverpool, Premier League, Football, Managerial Mistake, Team Balance, Performance, Strategy, Rebuild, Conor Bradley, Ibrahima Konat, Africa Cup of Nations

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