Arne Slot’s era looks like it’s going to be built on control. Slower build-up, more structure, more patience. Fine by me, to be fair. But if that’s the base, then by 2026 I’m hoping we’ve added a bit more edge to it, because control on its own can turn into possession for possession’s sake.

Let the full-backs actually hurt teams

The first thing I want to see is the leash coming off the full-backs. Not reckless, not both bombing on at the same time for the sake of it, but with proper licence to combine with the wingers and get us down the sides of a set defence.

So much of breaking low blocks is about creating problems at the edges: overlaps, underlaps, little two-v-twos, and then that one moment where you get in behind rather than just recycling it back to the centre-backs. If we’re going to be methodical, we still need to be dangerous.

More buzz when we’ve pinned them back

When Liverpool have a team stuck in their own third, I want it to feel like a siege. Higher energy. Faster decisions. A bit more chaos in the final 25 yards.

There’s a specific sound at Anfield when we’re on top and the ball keeps coming back at you. That’s what I’m after. Their defenders shouldn’t be settling into shape and having a chat. They should be panicking because the next cross, cut-back or second ball is coming right away.

Set-pieces: stop being polite

Set-pieces are another big one. Both boxes, all over the pitch. A proper improvement here changes tight games without you needing to play brilliantly.

I’m not talking about some magic trick or copying anyone else. Just being better organised, more aggressive with our runs, and having a clear plan. And yes, if that means a slightly cracked set-piece coach comes in and turns it into a weapon, I’m all for it.

A destroyer at six, a leader at centre-half

Squad-wise, I’d still love an athletic destroyer at defensive midfield who’s neat and tidy in possession. Not just a runner. Someone who gives you that insurance blanket defensively, and in turn gives Slot the confidence to release the full-backs when it’s on.

And defensively, it has to be better from everyone, but especially the centre-backs. Whether that’s coaching, cohesion, or a “shiny new” centre-half to raise the level, it needs to tighten up.

On top of all that: I’m still hoping Isak can kick the fitness issues and drive on to the level we all know he’s got in him. And finally, yeah, some titles would be nice. Whatever they are. If one of them happens to be the European Cup, I won’t complain.

Written by Davey Sulls: 7 January 2026

Tags: tactics efl europe injury