Liverpool's Defensive Dilemma: Future Planning Leaves Present Problems Unresolved
Liverpool Football Club have secured defensive reinforcements for the coming years, but manager Arne Slot faces an immediate and pressing crisis at the back. The situation is summed up by an overworked Virgil van Dijk, inconsistent performances from Ibrahima Konate, and fitness concerns surrounding Joe Gomez. As Liverpool prepare for critical fixtures, Slot finds himself desperately trying to plug defensive gaps to salvage their season.
Transfer Window Contrasts: Future Investment Versus Present Needs
The January transfer window concluded with Liverpool securing the signature of young centre-back Jeremy Jacquet, though he will not arrive until the summer. This follows a summer deadline day that was defined by the striker Liverpool acquired and the defender they failed to sign. The immediate problem for Slot is stark: while summer signing Alexander Isak is now injured, and while Jacquet represents future promise, Liverpool missed out on defensive reinforcements who could help immediately.
Marc Guehi, who eluded Liverpool in September, will instead face them wearing Manchester City colors this weekend. Lutsharel Geertruida, who excelled under Slot at Feyenoord, was targeted as an emergency addition but proved impossible to acquire from RB Leipzig via Sunderland. Consequently, Dominik Szoboszlai, who played as a false nine against City last year, is likely to line up at right-back in the upcoming match.
Injury Crisis Compounding Defensive Shortages
Liverpool's defensive resources have been decimated by injuries. Giovanni Leoni and Conor Bradley are out for the season, while Jeremie Frimpong remains sidelined for the foreseeable future. The injury-prone Joe Gomez may only be fit enough for the bench this weekend, and Ibrahima Konate recently returned early from compassionate leave following his father's death to face Newcastle. The situation has become so dire that three different midfielders have operated in the back four during Liverpool's last two matches.
"I'm very happy with the squad, let that be clear," countered Slot when questioned about his defensive options. "But it's all clear and obvious that we have three long-term injuries. That's why we've tried to strengthen the squad in winter." The manager acknowledged that attempts to sign Geertruida ultimately failed, but emphasized that the club only pursues players good enough to represent Liverpool.
Missed Opportunities and Strategic Differences
Liverpool certainly believed Guehi was good enough, having bid £35 million for him in the summer. However, they left their move so late that Crystal Palace withdrew when they couldn't secure a replacement. Liverpool did not intervene when Manchester City purchased the England international for £20 million in January, despite arguably having greater need for his services given Konate's inconsistent campaign.
City could offer more substantial wages in addition to the transfer fee, while Liverpool shifted their attention to next season and the next generation. Jacquet will cost £55 million but is just 20 years old. "A very big talent," said Slot of the young defender. When including Noah Adekoya, Mor Talla Ndiaye, and Ifeanyi Ndukwe, Liverpool are bringing in five centre-backs under 21 years old, clearly searching for Virgil van Dijk's eventual successor.
Van Dijk's Burden and Managerial Philosophy
The 34-year-old Van Dijk has played every minute of all 32 Premier League and Champions League matches this season. "What a compliment to him at his age to play every three days," remarked Slot. Liverpool's reliance on their captain is immense, and his continued fitness is crucial to their prospects.
"But it's clear and obvious that if we have an injury crisis, even more than we already have, then that makes things even more difficult," admitted Slot. "This squad is able to do better and more than we've done until now, in my opinion. But then they all need to stay available, and that's going to be a hell of a challenge."
The contrast with Manchester City is striking. When City faced defensive absences with John Stones, Josko Gvardiol, and Ruben Dias sidelined, they moved decisively to sign Guehi. The 25-year-old England international brings Premier League experience and immediate readiness, unlike Liverpool's younger signings who may need time to adapt.
Slot nevertheless maintains his commitment to Liverpool's strategic approach. "I have always worked the same. I always want the best for the club, even if in the short term it is not ideal for me," he explained. "I knew which club I went into; this club has a model of signing talented players younger." In the immediate term, however, his task would undoubtedly be easier with Guehi and Geertruida available—the defenders Liverpool missed out on at the end of both transfer windows.
