Slot explains decision to bench Gakpo before bringing him on against Palace

Liverpool’s loss at Selhurst Park raised several concerns, but one question was directly addressed by Arne Slot – why Cody Gakpo was left on the bench at kickoff before coming on in the second half.

Slot explains Gakpo’s bench role
Speaking to Liverpoolfc.com after the game, the 47-year-old manager outlined his tactical decision.

“We wanted to create an overload in midfield with Florian Wirtz during the first half, which is why Cody didn’t start,” explained the former Feyenoord boss.

However, with Liverpool trailing after a lackluster opening 45 minutes, Slot adjusted his approach.

“When you’re 1-0 down and need a goal, you prefer to have more width on both flanks – that’s why we introduced Cody,” he added.

Wirtz, who had been trusted with a key role in the opening half, missed a crucial opportunity, adding to the team’s frustration. Slot also shared his thoughts on Alexander Isak’s performance, as the striker continues to adapt following his high-profile move.

The introduction of Gakpo did stretch Crystal Palace’s defense and played a part in Federico Chiesa scoring a late equaliser. However, Eddie Nketiah’s stoppage-time strike ultimately sealed a heartbreaking defeat for the Reds. Slot’s comments suggested some frustration with Gakpo’s role in Palace’s winning goal.

Pressure mounting on Liverpool’s big signings
The match marked only the second Premier League start for Isak since his £125m transfer, while Wirtz, a £116m signing from Bayer Leverkusen, also featured prominently.

Neither player managed to deliver a decisive moment in attack, highlighting the growing pressure on Liverpool’s two major summer acquisitions to make an impact.

Defensive frailties were also evident, worsened by the club’s failure to complete a deal for Marc Guehi before the transfer deadline. Ironically, Guehi captained Palace and led by example, while Liverpool’s backline struggled to contain the hosts.

In the end, Slot conceded that his decision to leave Gakpo out from the start did not work as intended. The defeat served as a stark reminder that Liverpool’s revamped squad still needs significant adjustments to compete at the highest level.