Liverpool’s season under Arne Slot has been a fascinating mix of tactical evolution and high expectations. After succeeding Jurgen Klopp in June 2024, Slot delivered a Premier League title in his debut campaign, restoring belief that Liverpool could remain a dominant force in English football.
But as the 2025/26 season unfolds, cracks are beginning to show—none more glaring than in the defensive department. The recent injury to Conor Bradley has transformed a manageable concern into a full-blown crisis; their title defence is already in tatters, and unless they move decisively in the transfer market, their ambitions could unravel further.
From Stability to Fragility: The Right-Back Dilemma
Bradley’s rise was one of Liverpool’s success stories last season. His energy, defensive discipline, and attacking contributions made him a reliable alternative to Trent Alexander-Arnold, who departed the club before this campaign. Bradley’s injury now leaves Liverpool dangerously exposed at right-back.
On paper, Jeremie Frimpong could slot into the role. Signed for his dynamism and versatility, Frimpong is a natural right-back. However, Slot’s tactical adjustments during Mohamed Salah’s AFCON absence have pushed Frimpong into an advanced role on the right wing. His pace and attacking instincts have been crucial in compensating for Salah’s absence, making it unlikely Slot will sacrifice that attacking outlet by moving him back permanently.
Joe Gomez offers another solution. His ability to play across the backline is invaluable, but shifting him to right-back creates a domino effect: Liverpool would be left with only Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate as senior centre-backs. That’s a precarious position, especially after Giovanni Leoni’s season-ending ACL injury earlier in the campaign. One more setback at centre-back, and Liverpool’s defensive structure collapses.
Calvin Ramsay remains in the squad, but his lack of experience and limited appearances make him an emergency option rather than a dependable solution.
The Bigger Picture: Why Standing Still Is Not an Option
Liverpool’s defensive fragility isn’t just about numbers—it’s about balance. Slot’s system, like Klopp’s before him, thrives on controlled aggression. Full-backs push high, centre-backs cover vast spaces, and midfielders recycle possession quickly. Any compromise in personnel risks disrupting this delicate equilibrium.
The Premier League title race is unforgiving. Manchester City’s depth is unmatched, Arsenal are relentless, and even surprise challengers like Aston Villa are showing consistency. In Europe, the margins are even finer. Liverpool cannot afford to limp through the season hoping injuries don’t pile up. Reinforcements aren’t a luxury—they’re a necessity.
Marc Guehi: The Ideal Fit Amid Fierce Competition
Reports linking Liverpool to Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi make perfect sense. At 25, Guehi combines Premier League experience with composure and athleticism. He’s strong in duels, comfortable on the ball, and tactically disciplined—traits that align perfectly with Slot’s high defensive line.
But here’s the catch: Liverpool aren’t alone in this pursuit. Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich are all reportedly circling – the competition from Europe’s elite means Liverpool must act decisively. Waiting until the summer could be fatal; by then, Guehi’s contract will expire, and it stands to reason to expect Real Madrid to come for him and exert their full pulling power to get him. City appear aware of this, and dealing with an injury crisis of their own, they’re considering a move for Guehi this month.
For Liverpool, Guehi wouldn’t be just a signing—but a statement, too. Securing him now would reinforce the squad, protect against further injuries, and send a message that the club is serious about sustaining its challenge on all fronts.
Nico Schlotterbeck: A Strong Alternative
If Guehi proves elusive, Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck is another intriguing option. At 26, Schlotterbeck offers aerial dominance, physicality, and progressive passing. His Bundesliga pedigree suggests he could adapt quickly to Slot’s demands. While he may not have Guehi’s Premier League experience, his ceiling is high, and Dortmund’s willingness to negotiate due to his contract approaching its final year could make him a realistic target—especially with Bayern reportedly out of the race.
However, Dortmund reportedly haven’t given up on getting Schlotterbeck to recommit by signing a new deal. Liverpool would need to present a compelling project and financial package to land him this month.
The Cost of Inaction
Liverpool’s recruitment strategy under Klopp—and now Slot—has always been measured: value-driven rather than reactionary. But there are moments when pragmatism must yield to urgency. This is one of those moments.
Failing to reinforce the backline could derail Liverpool’s season. Imagine a scenario where Van Dijk or Konate picks up an injury during the congested spring schedule. Suddenly, Gomez is the only option, and academy prospects are thrust into high-stakes fixtures. That’s not a recipe for silverware—it’s a gamble Liverpool cannot afford.
Conclusion: Time to Pull the Trigger
Liverpool’s identity under Arne Slot has been built on tactical intelligence and adaptability, but the current defensive situation demands certainty. Conor Bradley’s injury has exposed the squad’s vulnerability, and while tactical tweaks can offer temporary solutions, they won’t sustain a title challenge.
Marc Guehi should be the priority—his profile, experience, and adaptability make him the perfect fit. If competition drives his price up, Liverpool must decide whether ambition outweighs caution. Because in football, hesitation often costs more than boldness.
The clock is ticking. For Liverpool, the choice is clear: act now, or risk watching a promising season unravel under the weight of defensive frailty.
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