As Liverpool prepares to face Arsenal in a highly anticipated Premier League clash at Anfield, former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson has sparked debate with his bold predictions about Arne Slot’s team selection. Merson has suggested that Liverpool’s club-record signing, Florian Wirtz, could be at risk of being dropped from the starting lineup due to his underwhelming performances, while expressing surprise at the prospect of Milos Kerkez being left out despite his own struggles.
Wirtz’s Rocky Start at Anfield
Florian Wirtz, the 22-year-old German playmaker, arrived at Liverpool with high expectations following a standout performance in the Community Shield against Crystal Palace. However, his influence has waned in subsequent matches, with lackluster showings in victories over Bournemouth and Newcastle. Against Newcastle, Wirtz was particularly subdued, drawing criticism from fans online for his limited impact. Despite his hefty £100 million price tag, the attacking midfielder has yet to register a goal or assist in the Premier League, raising questions about his adaptation to Slot’s system.
Pundits have noted that Liverpool are still adjusting to the tactical demands of integrating Wirtz into the squad. Merson, speaking to Sportskeeda, suggested that Slot may opt to revert to the midfield trio of Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, and Dominik Szoboszlai, who were pivotal in Liverpool’s success last season. “I have a feeling Arne Slot will go back to using Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, and Dominik Szoboszlai in midfield in this game,” Merson said. “All of them have not been available together so far this season. Midfields win you league titles, and so they must start together.”
Merson acknowledged the pressure to include a player of Wirtz’s caliber, stating, “You want your £100 million player to start in these games, that’s the reason why you’ve bought him in the first place. So I don’t really see Wirtz not playing this game, but it can certainly become a big conundrum for Arne Slot in the future.” However, he warned that Liverpool’s midfield looks “a bit open” with Wirtz, suggesting the team can be overpowered when he plays, potentially leaving Slot with a tough decision to bench the young star.
Kerkez’s Struggles: Immune to the Chop?
Meanwhile, left-back Milos Kerkez has also faced scrutiny for his performances early in the season. The young defender was at fault for Newcastle’s opening goal at St James’ Park, losing an aerial duel to Bruno Guimaraes, and struggled against his former club, Bournemouth. Despite these setbacks, Merson believes Kerkez is unlikely to be dropped for the Arsenal match. “It’s the same with Milos Kerkez. Even though he isn’t at his best, I’d be shocked if he’s dropped for this game,” Merson remarked.
Kerkez’s role in the squad appears more secure, possibly due to a lack of direct competition at left-back or Slot’s confidence in the player’s potential to recover his form. However, the contrast between Merson’s confidence in Kerkez retaining his spot and his doubts about Wirtz highlights the intense scrutiny on Liverpool’s new signings as they adapt to the Premier League’s demands.
Arsenal’s Injury Woes and Merson’s Prediction
The upcoming match against Arsenal adds further intrigue, with the Gunners grappling with fitness concerns over key players. Captain Martin Odegaard’s availability is in doubt, while star winger Bukayo Saka is expected to miss up to four weeks due to injury. These absences could tilt the balance in Liverpool’s favor, but Merson remains cautious in his prediction.
“I’d be happy with 1-1 if I’m Arsenal,” Merson told Sportskeeda. “But for some reason, my head still says Liverpool. I’m going to listen to my heart here and go with 1-1!” His prediction of a draw reflects the tight contest expected at Anfield, with both teams boasting talent but facing challenges in consistency and fitness.
Slot’s Tactical Dilemma
Arne Slot finds himself at a crossroads as he navigates Liverpool’s transition under his management. The integration of high-profile signings like Wirtz, combined with the need to maintain the team’s competitive edge, presents a significant challenge. Merson’s comments underscore the delicate balance Slot must strike between giving new players time to settle and ensuring the team remains solid in crucial matches.
As Liverpool fans eagerly await the clash with Arsenal, all eyes will be on Slot’s lineup. Will Wirtz be given another chance to prove his worth, or will Slot heed Merson’s advice and revert to a tried-and-tested midfield? One thing is certain: the decisions made at Anfield could have a lasting impact on Liverpool’s season.