Arne Slot Must Make These Three Crucial Adjustments to Conquer Chelsea at Stamford Bridge

Liverpool are experiencing an unusual situation after suffering consecutive defeats in the last seven days.

This marks just the second occasion during Arne Slot's management where the Reds have endured back-to-back losses, faltering through disappointing showings against Crystal Palace and Galatasaray. After benefiting from good fortune during the campaign's early stages despite seven consecutive victories, their luck has run out during challenging away fixtures in London and Istanbul.

Liverpool now face the real possibility of three consecutive defeats for the first time since Spring 2023 as they head to Chelsea in Premier League action this weekend, fighting to maintain their position at the summit.

Displays have been below standard for most of the season, with Slot's revamped team missing equilibrium and now self-belief following several poor performances. The Dutch manager needs to address Liverpool's problems to guarantee they leave Stamford Bridge with dignity on Saturday.

Here are three adjustments Slot needs to implement for Liverpool's clash with the Blues.

Prioritise Defensive Full Backs

Liverpool were compelled to acquire new full backs during the summer transfer window. Trent Alexander-Arnold's exit led to the Reds bringing in Jeremie Frimpong, while the disappointing 2024–25 performances of Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas resulted in Milos Kerkez joining Slot's defensive roster.

Frimpong and Kerkez are both excellent full backs but they present the same problem: defensive imbalance. Both players are extremely offensive-minded options, with Frimpong primarily deployed as a wing back during his stint at Bayer Leverkusen and Kerkez frequently given attacking freedom on Bournemouth's left side before his Anfield move.

Liverpool have been vulnerable defensively during the season's early stages—even in wins—and the full back positions have created difficulties for them. With Chelsea possessing numerous quick wingers like Alejandro Garnacho, Pedro Neto, Jamie Gittens and Estêvão, Slot cannot afford to choose such attack-minded defenders at Stamford Bridge.

Frimpong, who was deployed as a winger for much of the Galatasaray loss, should be substituted by the more defensively solid Conor Bradley, while Kerkez, who has struggled early in his Liverpool career, should make way for the experienced Robertson.

Chelsea possess an impressive collection of attacking players and will certainly target Liverpool's wide areas. Choosing reliable and combative full backs could be crucial to neutralizing the hosts' offensive threats.

Drop Florian Wirtz

Florian Wirtz requires time to adapt to English football, that's certain. The £116 million ($156.2 million) attacking midfielder has disappointed early in his Liverpool stint, but few question that he will succeed given time. The criticism directed at the German has been somewhat excessive, but it's clear he's well below the high standards he established at Leverkusen.

Wirtz has taken on the No.10 position but doesn't provide the same defensive contribution or endurance as Dominik Szoboszlai, who served as Liverpool's most advanced midfielder last campaign. The Reds have found it difficult to integrate Wirtz while maintaining defensive solidity, with significant gaps emerging throughout the team and, most notably, during transitions.

During a phase where Liverpool appear vulnerable and unsure of themselves, reverting to a more familiar formation and lineup could prove advantageous. The Reds need to regain their rhythm and selecting a proven team will help them maintain a structured, well-organized shape.

Deploying Szoboszlai as an attacking midfielder—particularly in an away match against quality opposition—will enable Liverpool to return to fundamentals, while also offering them enhanced defensive protection.

Wirtz has a tremendously promising future at Anfield, but he may need to be removed from the spotlight for both his and Liverpool's benefit.

Step Up Pressing Intensity

Liverpool's lethargy has been among the most shocking developments in recent matches, with the Reds appearing worryingly slow against Palace and Galatasaray. Their opponents simply displayed greater intensity and commitment than Slot's players, with Liverpool unable to match such vigor.

At their peak, Liverpool are the team overwhelming opponents, but they have lost some of their spark recently. They must produce a more energetic display against Chelsea, pressing aggressively and collectively from the opening whistle.

Such a high-energy approach could prove especially effective on Saturday considering Chelsea's defensive concerns. Levi Colwill, Tosin Adarabioyo and the suspended Trevoh Chalobah are all unavailable at centre back, with a partnership of Jorrel Hato and Benoît Badiashile looking most probable for Liverpool's visit. With Enzo Maresca's team instructed to play through phases and build from the back, applying pressure to Chelsea's depleted defense could yield results.

Nevertheless, Liverpool must perform with greater resolve and vigor than they have during the past week. If they fail to do so, they will suffer a third consecutive defeat for the first time under Slot.