Liverpool’s 5-1 demolition of Eintracht Frankfurt wasn’t just a return to form it was a glimpse into what the Reds might look like in the near future. Arne Slot surprised many by benching Mohamed Salah and starting record signing Alexander Isak alongside Hugo Ekitike for the first time. Below you will see complete information that has been summarized by The Football Insight.
The bold gamble paid off beautifully as Liverpool looked fluid, ruthless, and full of confidence. Ekitike, who joined from Frankfurt in the summer, scored against his former club and looked like a player reborn. His chemistry with Isak in the opening half offered promise that Liverpool could soon have one of Europe’s most dynamic attacking duos.
But just as optimism peaked, Isak was forced off at halftime with a groin injury a worrying setback that cut short a partnership fans were eager to see grow. Slot admitted afterward that he had taken a calculated risk by playing Isak twice in three days, hoping for the best but aware of the danger.
A System Taking Shape Under Slot
Liverpool’s starting lineup raised eyebrows, but by the end of the night, Slot’s tactical experiment was vindicated. Though the team initially looked unsettled and conceded early, they gradually found rhythm and completely overpowered Frankfurt after the break. The high pressing, quick combinations, and collective hunger reflected a side rediscovering its identity. Defensive issues remain a concern Liverpool have now conceded 18 goals in 13 games but the balance in attack looked sharper than at any point this season.
With five different players scoring, the Reds showed the versatility and unpredictability that Slot has been chasing. Former players like Stephen Warnock praised the approach, noting that while flaws remain, the foundation is clearly promising. “It’s not flawless yet, but you can see how this could become Liverpool’s long-term system.”
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Ekitike Emerges as Liverpool’s Bright Spark
While Isak’s injury stole some headlines, Ekitike’s performance was impossible to ignore. His movement, energy, and finishing set the tone for Liverpool’s dominance. Now on six goals this season, the French striker appears to be adapting fastest among the club’s summer signings. Former United stars Andy Cole and Owen Hargreaves both lauded Ekitike’s display, calling him “a pure player” and “a guaranteed starter.”
His ability to link play, press aggressively, and attack space gives Liverpool a new dimension. If Slot continues to pair him with Isak once the Swede returns, the Reds could possess one of Europe’s most explosive strike partnerships something the club has lacked since the peak of Salah and Mané.
Salah’s Wake-Up Call
Leaving Mohamed Salah on the bench was a brave call, especially given his reputation and Champions League record. Yet, it may be exactly what he needs. The Egyptian forward has struggled to find form, scoring just two league goals in eight matches, far from his usual standards. When he came on for the final 16 minutes, Salah looked desperate to score taking shots from awkward angles instead of passing.
Analysts suggested that Slot’s decision could serve as a much-needed motivation for him to rediscover his edge. With Isak now likely sidelined, Salah will almost certainly reclaim his starting spot against Brentford. For Liverpool, this may be a blessing in disguise a chance for their talisman to reignite his fire just as the team begins to click under Slot’s evolving system. Follow footballcoasters.co.uk for weekly deep dives into football’s biggest stories.