Arne Slot’s Liverpool side operate primarily in a 4-2-3-1 that shifts into a 2-3-5 in possession and a compact 4-3-3 out of it. The Reds are one of the most structured and dynamic teams in the league, blending high-possession play with sharp transitions and dangerous wide play.
In possession, Liverpool build patiently from the back, with goalkeeper Alisson recording one of the lowest launch rates in the Premier League—indicating their heavy reliance on structured build-up play. Centre-backs Van Dijk and Konaté split wide, with full-backs Robertson and Alexander-Arnold pushing up. Either Gravenberch or Mac Allister drops deep to link play as the other pivots higher into midfield. This layered build-up helps Liverpool progress the ball efficiently, with Trent and Van Dijk contributing heavily to progressive pass volume.
Once in the opposition half, Liverpool morph into a fluid 2-3-5 shape, enabling coordinated rotations and attacking overloads. Salah and Gakpo receive the bulk of progressive passes, typically cutting in from wide positions to operate in the half-spaces. Salah, in particular, has had an excellent campaign, not only scoring but also creating chances with incisive passes from the right. Szoboszlai and Mac Allister frequently make underlapping runs into the final third, while full-backs overlap to stretch play.
Out of possession, Liverpool defend in a narrow 4-3-3 with their attacking midfielder tucking in to support midfield recovery efforts—especially on the right to allow Salah to remain high. They are aggressive pressers, often triggering the press on backward passes. Along with a PPDA value of 10.2, they rank 2nd in the league for forcing errors that lead to shots, indicating an effective high press.
Transitions are another key strength for Liverpool. They lead the league in shots (62) and goals (14) from fast breaks, with Salah particularly devastating on the counter. Defensively, their midfielders counter-press quickly upon loss, especially in wide areas, using a coordinated press from the attacking shape to stifle opponent build-up and regain possession high.
Slot’s side pose a multifaceted threat—capable of controlling tempo through possession, punishing in transition, and extremely organized both on and off the ball.