While Jurgen Klopp’s formation has adapted over the years, the time may have come for more drastic change.
For the last two years, Klopp’s 4-3-3 has been the most effective system in the Premier League.
With a functional midfield behind a world-class front three supplied by the finest full-back pairing on the planet, it’s ruthlessly efficient. However, there are now signs other teams may be finally figuring out what to do about it.
Andy Robertson highlighted Sadio Mane’s last-gasp winner against Aston Villa as further evidence of how much the Liverpool star has raised his game in 2019. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BY GOAL.
Against Arsenal in the Community Shield, Mikel Arteta showed a blueprint on how to blunt it. His 3-4-3 became a wide set 5-4-1 out of possession, cutting off supply to Liverpool’s full-backs and forcing them infield.
This forced them to try and create from the centre, which simply doesn’t suit their setup. Liverpool’s midfield three, rather than a creative set up is there to win the ball and recycle possession. When forced to try and take the initiative in a match, they can struggle.
This is where a switch to a 4-2-3-1 setup may be used to counter it. This would allow Liverpool to move creative midfielders into the centre of the pitch, making themselves far more unpredictable.
It would also take some of the pressure off Roberto Firmino as a defensive force. In this system, he’ll be able to receive the ball deeper and be more of a creative force for the Reds.
LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 11: Roberto Firmino of Liverpool reacts after his sides victory during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool FC at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on January 11, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BY RICHARD HEATHCOTE/GETTY IMAGES.
A number of Liverpool’s midfielders have also shown they’re more comfortable playing in a double pivot. Naby Keita, in particular, had the best form of his career playing next to Diego Demme at RB Leipzig.
His runs from deep in a 4-2-3-1 would and have been lethally effective. Fabinho too, won the Ligue 1 title at Monaco in a double pivot under Leonardo Jardim. It could also benefit some of Liverpool’s fringe attackers, namely, Takumi Minamino and Xherdan Shaqiri.
Placing less emphasis on pace, it would allow them to come into the attack and provide genuine options.
It could also benefit some of Liverpool’s fringe attackers, namely, Takumi Minamino and Xherdan Shaqiri. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BY GETTY IMAGES VIA GOAL.
Indeed, Minamino has shown in his outings in pre-season, that he could even force his way into the starting lineup in this system. Comfortable playing across the attack, he’ll provide an excellent option for the Reds going forward.
There are still issues the system can represent. Taking a midfielder away can, of course, leave teams open to the counter-attack.
There is also the threat of the number 10 being marked out of the game. However, for Liverpool, the positives far outweigh the issues of the system, given the lack of additions so far.
