Arne Slot Must Avoid Same Error With Liverpool Pair Labeled ‘Shocking’ in Bournemouth Defeat
Liverpool’s 13-match unbeaten run came to a dramatic halt on Saturday as the Premier League champions fell 3-2 to Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth on their own turf. Fans, however, were quick to single out two players they labeled as “shocking” and “horrendous” during the defeat.
Bournemouth took an unexpected lead in the 27th minute when Evanilson finished after Virgil van Dijk failed to clear the ball and Alex Scott kept it alive. Alex Jimenez then scored his first Premier League goal to double their advantage. Just before halftime, Van Dijk managed to head Mohamed Salah’s corner past goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic, giving Liverpool hope. The second half, however, was largely uneventful, with Liverpool struggling to break through even after introducing Hugo Ekitike. Eventually, Dominik Szoboszlai—Liverpool’s standout performer this season—converted a free-kick after Salah laid the ball off. But Bournemouth snatched all three points late on, crushing Anfield hearts.
Manager Arne Slot tried a 4-2-2-2 system, with a back four, high full-backs, two No.10s, and a two-striker setup. It looked promising for the first 20 minutes, but Evanilson’s opener shifted momentum. Liverpool lacked a true presence in the box, with wingers Cody Gakpo and Salah forced to lead the attack. Fans noted the team missed the aerial threat of Ekitike or the injured Alexander Isak, which left them struggling for a breakthrough.
Gakpo was substituted for youngster Rio Ngumoha in the 73rd minute after an underwhelming display—34 touches, only three inside the box, and just one created chance. Salah also struggled, with two of three shots saved and only 13% accuracy on his crosses. Despite his legendary status at the club, he and Gakpo drew the brunt of fan criticism.
Supporters vented on social media, calling the duo “dreadful,” “unwatchable,” and “painful to watch,” criticizing their decision-making, lack of control, and inability to create chances. One wrote: “Salah forcing it and Gakpo hesitating. This just isn’t good enough for our club.”
Looking ahead, Liverpool must rethink their attacking setup if they hope to secure a top-four finish. Isak’s injury is a setback, but using Ekitike as the lone striker appears a smarter strategy than pairing Salah and Gakpo. After this defeat, the Reds now face Qarabag in their final Champions League group match before welcoming Newcastle United and Manchester City to Anfield.