Arne Slot has provided an explanation regarding Liverpool's lineup for Sunday afternoon's clash with Burnley. Alexander Isak is still absent for the English champions, while Dominik Szoboszlai has been deployed at right-back instead of Jeremie Frimpong.
Arne Slot has provided a detailed explanation for his decisions regarding Liverpool’s lineup for today’s Premier League fixture against Burnley, which kicks off at 15:00 at Turf Moor.
The match comes at an important juncture in the season for the English champions, who are balancing a demanding run of fixtures that includes domestic league commitments and a crucial Champions League tie against Atlético Madrid in midweek.
The most striking aspect of Liverpool’s starting eleven is the absence of star striker Alexander Isak and the unexpected deployment of Dominik Szoboszlai at right-back, a position usually reserved for specialists such as Jeremie Frimpong or Conor Bradley. Both natural right-backs remain on the bench, while Szoboszlai, traditionally a central or attacking midfielder, has been tasked with covering the defensive role on the flank.
Speaking to the English press before kick-off, Slot justified his decision to stick with an unchanged lineup from the side that performed impressively against Arsenal in the previous round of fixtures. “We decided to go with the same team that played very well against Arsenal,” he explained. “In a week with three matches, we believe this is the best preparation for the clash with Atlético Madrid.” His words highlight his commitment to consistency and rhythm, even at the risk of playing footballers outside of their natural positions.
Slot’s tactical call reflects a growing trend in modern football, where flexibility and versatility are highly valued. Szoboszlai, though unaccustomed to a defensive role, offers qualities that Slot believes can contribute to Liverpool’s buildup play from the back. His composure on the ball, ability to progress possession, and stamina could prove valuable against a Burnley side expected to defend deep and look for counterattacking opportunities. However, the Hungarian’s defensive awareness and positioning will inevitably be scrutinized throughout the match, especially with two established right-backs waiting on the sidelines.
The Dutch manager also sought to reassure both the media and supporters that this decision was temporary, clarifying that Szoboszlai would return to his natural midfield role in the upcoming Champions League fixture against Atlético Madrid. He emphasized that both Frimpong and Bradley would get their minutes in the coming games, stressing that squad rotation was essential given the demanding schedule and the need to keep players fresh for challenges across all competitions.
Nevertheless, the headline from Liverpool’s squad announcement is the continued absence of Alexander Isak. The Swedish striker, signed this summer from Newcastle United for a staggering fee of 150 million euros, was expected to be one of the central figures in Liverpool’s attack this season. His move was not only the biggest transfer of the English window but also a clear statement of intent from the club to reinforce its squad with proven Premier League quality.
Isak’s omission from the matchday squad immediately raised eyebrows, with journalists questioning whether it was due to fitness concerns, a minor injury, or a tactical decision by Slot. No official confirmation has yet been provided, leaving fans frustrated and anxious about the availability of their record signing. His absence is especially significant considering Liverpool’s packed fixture list, with crucial points on the line in the league and a demanding Champions League campaign ahead.
Liverpool’s attack, without Isak, is expected to rely on the likes of Mohamed Salah, Luis Díaz, and Cody Gakpo. While these forwards have consistently contributed goals, the physical presence and finishing instinct of Isak were seen as a major upgrade for the squad. His unavailability therefore puts additional pressure on the remaining attackers to deliver against a Burnley side desperate for points.
The decision to keep two natural right-backs on the bench while placing Szoboszlai in defense adds another layer of intrigue. Jeremie Frimpong, one of the most dynamic full-backs in European football, is renowned for his pace, overlapping runs, and attacking threat down the wing. Conor Bradley, a promising young talent, has also shown steady development and readiness to compete for minutes. Slot’s insistence on using neither from the start suggests a long-term strategy of squad management, where conserving energy for future matches takes precedence over immediate tactical convenience.
For Burnley, hosting the reigning champions presents both a daunting challenge and an opportunity. The Clarets, under pressure to collect points in their fight for Premier League survival, will look to exploit any weaknesses in Liverpool’s experimental backline. Turf Moor has historically been a difficult ground for visiting sides, with Burnley often thriving on physical battles, set pieces, and the ability to disrupt the rhythm of technically superior opponents.
As the match approaches, attention will remain firmly on how Szoboszlai adapts to his unfamiliar role, whether Liverpool can maintain defensive stability without a natural right-back, and how the attack functions in the absence of Isak. Beyond the result, Slot’s choices will be analyzed for what they reveal about his managerial approach: a willingness to take calculated risks, a preference for consistency, and a long-term view of squad management.
Ultimately, today’s game against Burnley is not just another league fixture for Liverpool. It is a test of depth, adaptability, and trust in players to perform outside their comfort zones, all while carrying the burden of high expectations. For supporters, the hope will be that these bold decisions by Slot will not only secure three points but also build the foundation for a successful run both in the Premier League and in Europe.
