Jurgen Klopp is planning a change of formation to help put an end to Liverpool’s early season struggles.
That’s according to The Daily Mail, who claim that the Liverpool boss is ‘considering’ tearing up his trusted 4-3-3 setup.
Instead, Klopp could reportedly turn to a more defensive looking formation, with three centre-backs being employed. However, this is said to be potentially a longer-term option, with work on the training ground needed.
More realistically, it’s claimed there could be a more ‘minor’ tweak to a 4-2-3-1. This would allow an extra attacker to be on the pitch while giving Liverpool the security of a flat midfield two.
Time for a change at Liverpool
It really feels like the time has finally come for Klopp to start to evolve his team tactically. The 4-3-3 is a system that has done Liverpool proud in recent years and the nuances of it will go down in history.
Namely, the freedom it gave Liverpool’s full-backs to be the creative outlets of the team. Also, the roles the formation created for Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah.
But all good things come to an end. Liverpool have become far too predictable, and they must now adapt. If they don’t, or can’t, it could be a really long season ahead.
Luckily, it’s still early enough in the campaign for Klopp and his coaches to do something about.
In truth, either of the formations mentioned would probably be worth a go. It would seem out of character for a Klopp team to go with three at the back, but given the personnel they have, it might work.
Three from four of Virgil Van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Joel Matip and Ibrahima Konate looks as solid as it gets. That would then allow Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson to push on without too much defensive responsiblity.
With Fabinho also able to fill in further back, Liverpool would be well-stocked.
Alternatively, the 4-2-3-1 would suit Liverpool with the abundance of attacking talent they have. With so much firepower on the pitch, they’ll peg so many teams back. Let’s see what Klopp decides, but he has to do something.
