Journalist Names Liverpool’s Strongest Front Three after Alexander Isak Arrival | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Forward Line Taking Shape Under Slot

Liverpool have started the season in impressive fashion, with Arne Slot guiding his team to three straight wins over Bournemouth, Newcastle United and Arsenal. Sitting two points clear at the top of the Premier League, there is already a growing sense of momentum at Anfield. The club’s recruitment has drawn headlines, particularly with Hugo Ekitike’s instant impact and the record-breaking arrival of Alexander Isak from Newcastle United.

David Lynch, speaking to Dave Davis for Anfield Index, provided some fascinating insight into how Slot might manage the balance of his attacking options across a long and demanding campaign.

Ekitike’s Impact and Isak’s Arrival

Liverpool’s £69m move for Ekitike raised eyebrows but the young Frenchman has already made history by scoring in each of his opening three games. He is the first Liverpool player to achieve that feat since Daniel Sturridge back in 2013. His energy, movement and composure have offered Slot an instant return, and there is excitement over how he can develop further.

The addition of Isak for £125m on deadline day takes things to another level. The Sweden international is expected to make his debut after the international break when Liverpool face Burnley at Turf Moor. His physical presence, intelligence and proven Premier League pedigree suggest he will slot straight into the first team. As Lynch explained: “They’re not going to be short in that centre-forward role, that looks really tasty, especially with Federico Chiesa behind them.”

Selection Questions Across the Front Three

While Isak and Ekitike have dominated the conversation, Slot must juggle a wealth of attacking options. Cody Gakpo looks likely to retain his place on the left, supported by Rio Ngumoha. Lynch noted: “Gakpo is probably going to start most of the games off the left, so Rio Ngumoha will be the backup in that role.”

At just 16, Ngumoha has already made headlines with a late winner at St. James’ Park. As Lynch put it: “He’s 16 and has already scored a late winner at St. James’ Park so maybe he is ready and you can’t block him off.” That ability to trust youth feels aligned with Liverpool’s long-term vision.

On the right, Mohamed Salah remains central to the system. Criticism has followed him in patches, but Lynch reminded us of the facts: “On the right-wing you have Mohamed Salah, who has had a bit of criticism but he has still managed a goal and an assist.”

Chiesa’s Versatility and Slot’s Big Decisions

Perhaps the most reassuring factor for supporters is the presence of Federico Chiesa. “Keeping Chiesa has been the key thing in making me feel like they have enough in those forward options because he can play in all three roles.” His flexibility offers Slot breathing space, particularly with Salah and Isak viewed as untouchable starters.

As Lynch observed: “I think it’s definitely going to be Salah, Isak and one more. They’re undroppable.” The challenge comes on the left, where Ekitike may be considered but is far from a natural wide forward. “That left-hand side is going to be interesting. I’ve seen talk of Ekitike playing off the left but I just struggle to see it.” Lynch was clear on his reasoning: “He’s never played there regularly, who why would Arne Slot start doing that when he already has Cody Gakpo and Florian Wirtz, who can operate off the left.”

Liverpool’s attack looks set for further evolution as the season progresses, and while the combinations may shift, there is growing confidence in the firepower at Slot’s disposal. As Lynch concluded: “All of these things can change throughout the season though and it’s very difficult to predict, but you can be confident on Salah and Isak making up two of those attacking spots.”