Transformational Tactical Approach

In the 2024/2025 Premier League season, Liverpool has showcased a transformed tactical approach under the stewardship of manager Arne Slot. The team has adopted a more controlled and defensively solid system compared to the high-pressure style employed by Jurgen Klopp in the previous season, making them formidable contenders for the title.

Recent Struggles

Despite their impressive performance throughout the season, Liverpool has recently encountered a slight stumbling block, drawing their last two matches against Newcastle United and Fulham. Notably, left-back Andy Robertson has found himself in the spotlight due to a series of mistakes, including a red card for a foul against Harvey Wilson in the match against Fulham. His uncharacteristic errors are raising eyebrows and headwinds for Liverpool.

Concerns from Pundits

Football pundit Paul Scholes has voiced concerns that Robertson's shaky form could lead to opposing teams deliberately targeting him. Despite initially defending Robertson's abilities, Scholes stated, "Even if it’s not your weakness, teams will start targeting that area all the time." His comments emphasize the ripple effect that individual performance can have on a player’s perceived strengths and weaknesses.

Defensive Matchups

Gary Neville echoed these worries, pointing out Robertson's struggles against formidable opponents like Bukayo Saka during a recent match against Arsenal, where his lapses in concentration allowed Saka to score. Furthermore, even during Liverpool's 2-0 victory over Real Madrid, Robertson's mistake resulted in a missed penalty by Kylian Mbappe, highlighting his current lack of form.

Psychological Burdens

Jamie Carragher, another Liverpool icon, shared insights into the psychological burden that can come with being labeled as a weak link. He explained that full-backs often find themselves isolated, facing immense pressure, especially as narratives develop around their performances. "The more people talk about it, the more the opposition will target it; it gets in your head," he noted.

The Road Ahead for Robertson

Carragher's reflections shine a light on the mental challenges players face, particularly as they age. He likened Robertson's situation to his own experiences, emphasizing that the pressure can intensify as players’ performances are scrutinized, especially after reaching a certain age.

Ultimately, while Robertson’s experience and skill set remain undeniable, his ability to rebound from this difficult patch will be crucial for Liverpool. As teams strategize their attacks, fans will be watching closely to see if the talented left-back can reclaim his status as one of the premier defenders in the league. Will the spotlight on Robertson lead to a resurgence, or will it further expose vulnerabilities in Liverpool's backline? Only time will tell, but the stakes are undoubtedly high.