Molby: “We take Mo Salah for granted” – LFC Legend Unpacks Salah’s Liverpool Impact | OneFootball

Jan Molby Analyses Liverpool’s Season and Key Players’ Impact

How the Reds are Adapting under Arne Slot’s Leadership

As Liverpool push forward in their Premier League campaign, fans and analysts alike are noticing key shifts in the team’s strategies under new manager Arne Slot. In the recent episode of the Molby On The Spot podcast, hosted by Trev Downey and featuring Liverpool legend Jan Molby, they discuss the season’s progress, with a special focus on key players like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah. From tactical changes to the evolving roles of top performers, this episode offers an insightful glimpse into the minds of Liverpool’s inner circle.

Trent Alexander-Arnold: New Roles, New Challenges

Slot’s arrival has brought notable tactical shifts, especially in how Liverpool’s fullbacks are utilised, with Alexander-Arnold playing a particularly unique role. His transition from a traditional right-back to a more flexible role has been closely scrutinised. Molby emphasises the complexity of Alexander-Arnold’s new positioning, remarking, “I think Trent is adapting well, but it’s not an easy change. You can see he’s figuring out where he fits best in this system.” This adaptation reflects a new phase for Liverpool, where Alexander-Arnold’s skillset as a creator is being tapped in more advanced positions.

The reconfiguration also allows Trent to “get involved in attacking play while covering defensively,” according to Molby, as he discusses the balance Slot is trying to achieve. Downey agrees, observing that this approach may ultimately bring out the best in Trent. “It’s a different game now for him,” Downey adds, “but it’s a challenge he’s up for.”

Photo: IMAGO

Virgil van Dijk: Rediscovering Form and Leadership

The impact of Virgil van Dijk on Liverpool’s defence cannot be overstated, with Molby stating, “Van Dijk’s presence alone lifts the team.” Van Dijk, whose recent form has been questioned by some fans, seems to be finding his footing once again under Slot’s management. Molby remarks, “Van Dijk is playing as well as I’ve ever seen him. He and [Ibrahima] Konate are outrageously good together.”

With van Dijk showing consistency, Molby expresses optimism for Liverpool’s defensive stability. Slot’s approach, allowing van Dijk more space to dictate the game, has added depth to Liverpool’s backline. “There’s a sense of leadership and calmness,” Molby notes. These qualities make van Dijk’s role indispensable, not only in defence but as a catalyst for Liverpool’s transition play.

Photo: IMAGO

Mohamed Salah: Reliability and Record-Breaking Form

A significant part of Liverpool’s consistency up front remains due to Mohamed Salah. As Molby puts it, “We take Mo for granted. He’s outrageous with his numbers, week after week.” The forward’s ability to deliver under pressure has been crucial to Liverpool’s resilience this season. Salah, who has continually broken records, scored and assisted in a way that has often carried the team.

Downey echoes Molby’s sentiments about Salah’s importance, saying, “It’s almost as if we forget what Mo does for us each game.” With the scoring records piling up, Salah’s performance remains a cornerstone of Liverpool’s attacking strategy. Molby and Downey both emphasise that Salah’s form is one of the primary reasons Liverpool remains competitive, calling it a privilege to witness his skills on the field.

Photo: @LFC

Slot’s Tactical Evolution and Liverpool’s Future

Slot’s arrival has undeniably brought about adjustments in Liverpool’s playstyle. Molby observes, “We’re winning games by making smart choices on the pitch, by controlling the play.” This shift to a more controlled and possession-oriented style, particularly in key match moments, is allowing Liverpool to edge out opponents without unnecessary risk. Slot’s tactical outlook has been praised by Molby and Downey as one that “maximises player strengths while minimising mistakes,” a formula that has proven essential in the tightly contested Premier League.

As Liverpool progress through the season, this adaptability and strategic foresight may be their best asset. The Molby On The Spot podcast provides fans with a detailed examination of these tactical elements and the invaluable contributions from Liverpool’s key players. Arne Slot’s vision is coming to life on the pitch, one game at a time.