USE: Former Premier League defender criticises Van Dijk and Konate | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Struggles Deepen as Arne Slot Faces Mounting Pressure

Liverpool’s turbulent run under Arne Slot continued with a 3–2 defeat at Brentford, marking a fourth consecutive Premier League loss for the Reds. Despite a late Mohamed Salah strike providing brief hope, it wasn’t enough to mask deeper issues that are beginning to define the early months of Slot’s tenure at Anfield.

Former professionals turned pundits Ashley Williams and Michael Carrick offered candid assessments of Liverpool’s frailties on Match of the Day, highlighting defensive disorganisation and a lack of composure under pressure.

Slot’s Defensive Concerns Grow

Liverpool’s backline has been a recurring point of concern this season. After conceding 14 goals in just nine matches, the defensive solidity that once characterised their dominance appears to have evaporated. Williams was quick to identify the alarming pattern, focusing particularly on the lack of awareness and urgency from key defenders.

“Brentford showed real quality with that goal,” Williams explained. “It was a smart bit of play — a great pass from Damsgaard and a clever run from Schade. But from Liverpool’s perspective, it’s poor. Konaté has a head start and doesn’t react, while Van Dijk doesn’t really sprint back. By the time the ball’s in the net, both are nowhere near it. That’s just unacceptable defending.”

The criticism echoed wider concerns about Virgil van Dijk’s form. Once regarded as the Premier League’s most commanding centre-back, the Dutchman has struggled to marshal a cohesive defence this season. Slot, meanwhile, cut a visibly frustrated figure on the touchline as his side’s organisation crumbled in key moments.

Photo: IMAGO

Williams and Carrick Question Mentality

While Williams focused on defensive discipline, Carrick’s comments delved into mentality and mindset. The former Manchester United midfielder suggested that the squad’s self-belief has begun to waver under mounting pressure.

“Sometimes when things start going against you, it snowballs,” Carrick said. “You feel like you’re doing everything the same, but it’s not clicking. The confidence dips slightly, and suddenly you’re second-guessing decisions. Liverpool have a lot of talent and a few new faces, but it just shows how fragile momentum can be.”

That fragility has been evident in recent weeks. Penalty appeals have gone unanswered, individual mistakes have proved costly, and Slot’s attempts to instil a new tactical rhythm have been met with inconsistent execution. For a club accustomed to relentless intensity and precision, the adjustment has been jarring.

Slot Searching for Stability

For Arne Slot, this period represents his first significant test since arriving from Feyenoord. His tactical approach — built around structured possession and coordinated pressing — has yet to fully translate into Premier League consistency. Injuries and adaptation issues have contributed, but the underlying challenge remains psychological as much as tactical.

Liverpool’s supporters, while patient, will expect a swift response. The club’s last run of four consecutive league defeats came under Jürgen Klopp in 2021, during an injury crisis that derailed their title defence. Slot’s situation may differ, but the expectations are no less demanding.

Rebuilding confidence within a squad that has long thrived on emotional intensity will be essential. Van Dijk, as captain, will play a crucial role in leading that response. If he can rediscover his commanding presence, and if Slot can strike the right tactical balance, Liverpool may yet regain their footing before the season slips further from their grasp.

Reality Check for Liverpool’s New Era

Liverpool’s defeat at Brentford was more than just another bad day — it was a reminder of the fine margins that separate confidence from chaos. Slot’s project is still in its infancy, but the early warning signs are clear: defensive lapses, uncertain leadership, and a need for sharper mentality.

For now, Ashley Williams’ critique and Michael Carrick’s insight underline what Liverpool must confront. This is a team in transition, one that must rediscover both its steel and self-belief if Slot’s vision is to take hold.