Journalist: Arne Slot to blame for Liverpool’s struggles against Fulham

Arne Slot’s Tactical Gamble Backfires as Szoboszlai Struggles in Fulham Draw

Liverpool left Craven Cottage with a 2-2 draw that felt like a missed opportunity, and much of the post-match analysis centred on one key decision from Arne Slot. The head coach’s choice to deploy Dominik Szoboszlai in a wide role was intended to solve a short-term tactical issue, but instead exposed a familiar problem and blunted Liverpool’s attacking edge against Fulham.

The game itself swung back and forth, with Liverpool twice taking the lead only to be pegged back, most notably by a late Harrison Reed equaliser. Yet beyond the scoreline, the contest offered a revealing snapshot of where Slot’s evolving system still needs refinement. As originally reported by Jack McEachen of the Daily Express, there was little urgency in the wide areas, a flaw that has been visible to regular observers for some time.

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Slot’s selection highlights structural concerns

Slot arrived at Liverpool with a clear philosophy: positional discipline, aggressive pressing and midfield control. Against Fulham, however, circumstances pushed him into compromise. Injuries and rotation meant Szoboszlai was selected to start on the right flank, a role that on paper promised creativity and ball progression.

In practice, it never quite clicked. Szoboszlai repeatedly drifted inside, searching for influence in central areas where he is at his most effective. While this movement is instinctive, it left Liverpool short of genuine width, allowing Fulham to stay compact and defend narrow spaces with confidence.

Slot’s touchline frustration was evident. He spent large spells urging his side to stretch the pitch, but the imbalance persisted. Fulham, well-drilled under Marco Silva, were happy to concede possession in safe areas while waiting for moments to counter.

Szoboszlai’s qualities suit midfield, not wide isolation

There is little doubt about Szoboszlai’s quality. His vision, shooting from range and ability to dictate tempo have been among Liverpool’s standout features this season. The issue on Sunday was not form, but fit.

Operating wide demands repeated one-v-one situations, early deliveries and a willingness to hold width even when the ball is elsewhere. Szoboszlai’s natural game is different. He wants touches between the lines, combinations with central midfielders and the freedom to arrive late in the box.

Against Fulham, that mismatch was clear. Liverpool’s right side lacked penetration, forcing attacks to funnel through crowded central zones. When chances did come, they required individual brilliance rather than structural superiority.

Fulham exploit spaces and punish hesitation

Fulham deserve credit for their response. Harry Wilson’s early goal, ghosting in behind after a clever move, underlined how small lapses in concentration can be punished at Premier League level. Even when Liverpool regained control, Silva’s side remained patient and organised.

Reed’s late equaliser felt inevitable rather than surprising. Liverpool’s inability to kill the game, combined with a lack of natural width, invited pressure and handed Fulham belief. Slot acknowledged afterwards that control without incision is rarely enough away from home.

Lessons for Slot as system continues to evolve

This was not a damaging result in isolation, but it was instructive. Slot is still shaping Liverpool in his image, and experimentation is part of that process. The Fulham draw highlighted the fine margins involved when adapting players to unfamiliar roles.

Szoboszlai remains central to Slot’s plans, but his best work continues to come from midfield, not the flanks. With fixtures piling up, the manager will need to balance flexibility with clarity, ensuring square pegs are not forced into round holes.

For Liverpool, the draw was a reminder that tactical ideals must align with player strengths. For Slot, it was a rare afternoon where a calculated gamble did not pay off.