Liverpool 2026: Arne Slot’s unbeaten streak and the strategic return of Mohamed Salah
The Reds needs to improve in the second part of the season and try to minimize all the mistakes that the made in the first part of them.
Liverpool FC is currently navigating a pivotal stretch of the 2025-2026 season, characterized by a complex mix of elite-level success and significant structural challenges. After a historic campaign where they were crowned Premier League champions in 2024-25, the "Reds" have spent the current term evolving under the tactical meticulousness of Arne Slot.
The recent momentum at Anfield is undeniable. The team has managed to string together an impressive 13-match unbeaten streak across all competitions. This run was highlighted by a dominant 3-0 victory in the UEFA Champions League, a performance that served as a statement of intent to the rest of Europe. Slot’s influence is becoming increasingly visible, particularly in the team's defensive solidity and more controlled offensive transitions.
The Tactical Revolution of Arne Slot
Slot has successfully adjusted the team's defensive schemes, significantly reducing the number of goals conceded compared to the erratic opening months of the season. Unlike the high-octane "heavy metal" football of the previous era, Slot’s Liverpool prioritizes positional discipline and surgical counter-attacks. This tactical shift has provided a much-needed backbone for a squad that faced early-season criticism for its lack of consistency.
The January Transfer Window: Trust in the Current Core
Despite the external noise and the typical frenzy of the January transfer window, Arne Slot has remained firm: no new signings are expected before the deadline. This decision reflects a deep confidence in the existing squad, even as injuries have plagued the defensive line.
However, the locker room hasn't been without its rumors. The possibility of Andrew Robertson departing in January to join Tottenham Hotspur has sparked intense debate among the Anfield faithful. Losing a veteran of Robertson's stature would not only impact the tactical setup but would also require a significant shift in the team's leadership dynamics.
The Return of the King: Mohamed Salah is Back
Undoubtedly, the biggest boost for Liverpool this January is the return of Mohamed Salah. Following his participation in the 2026 African Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Egyptian maestro has rejoined the squad at a critical juncture. His absence was felt, but his return injects a level of world-class finishing that the team lacked in tight league matches. With Salah back in the lineup, Liverpool looks significantly more threatening as they prepare for a high-stakes Premier League schedule.
Emerging Stars and the Future
One of the bright spots of the Slot era has been the integration of new talent. Players like Hugo Ekitike have drawn specific praise from the manager for their adaptability and dynamism. Ekitike’s emergence provides Slot with an alternative attacking profile, allowing for more flexibility when the team faces compact, defensive opponents.
Conclusion: A Season of Balance
As Liverpool looks ahead, the goal is clear: balance. The club must maintain its domestic title defense while simultaneously pushing deep into the Champions League knockout stages. While the unbeaten streak has restored hope, the team must still prove that its early-season inconsistencies are a thing of the past. Under Arne Slot’s guidance, Liverpool is not just playing for the present; they are building a sustainable foundation for a new era of dominance in English football.
