Liverpool 2.0 Debuts at Wembley: Mixed Display Highlights Strengths and Weaknesses
Liverpool under Arne Slot drew 2-2 with Crystal Palace before losing on penalties in the Community Shield, showcasing promising summer signings and defensive vulnerabilities.
Arne Slot’s new-look Liverpool made a memorable yet flawed debut in the Community Shield, drawing 2-2 with Crystal Palace before losing on penalties at Wembley.
Four summer signings—Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez and Hugo Ekitike—started as Liverpool unveiled their revamped squad, with goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili on the bench.
The game ended 2-2, with goals from Ekitike and Frimpong, marking the first time since 2006 that two debutants scored competitively for Liverpool. However, defensive errors allowed Palace to twice level the score.
New Full-Back Duo Show Attacking Flair
Frimpong and Kerkez replaced Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson’s overlapping threat. Kerkez mirrored Robertson’s style, while Frimpong hugged the touchline to provide width, chipping Dean Henderson to open his account. Yet defensive lapses persisted, notably allowing Ismaila Sarr to score the second equalizer.
Midfield Masterclass from Wirtz
Record signing Wirtz thrived in a freer, advanced role, orchestrating moves and linking with Ekitike. He led Liverpool in passes into the final third and touches in the box before his 84th-minute substitution.
Ekitike and the Search for Strikers
Ekitike showed poaching instincts by scoring on debut but also spurned early chances. His performance raises questions about additional striking options, with Alexander Isak linked as Liverpool pursue further reinforcement.
Outlook and Transfer Targets
Defensive vulnerability, especially in central defense, needs addressing before the September deadline. With Joe Gomez injured and Jarell Quansah sold, Liverpool are expected to add at least one center-back and possibly another striker.
Liverpool’s Community Shield performance under Arne Slot hinted at both exciting attacking potential and urgent defensive gaps ahead of the new season.
This topic was reported by BBC Sport.
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