With Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike and Mohamed Salah potentially missing, Liverpool FC might be short of firepower — but that doesn’t mean they should play safe.
In fact, it’s the perfect moment for Arne Slot to lean into something different.
Attack United with pace
Using Jeremie Frimpong and Rio Ngumoha out wide gives Liverpool something United hate dealing with:
- Direct running
- One-on-one situations
- Constant threat in behind
Instead of slowing the game down, this approach would:
👉 Stretch United
👉 Force their full-backs deep
👉 Create space centrally
Gakpo as the link in the middle
With Cody Gakpo leading the line, the focus shifts slightly.
He doesn’t need to be a traditional striker.
Instead, he can:
- Drop into pockets
- Link play between midfield and attack
- Bring the wide players into the game
This creates a more fluid, unpredictable front three.
Why this works better than sitting back
Going defensive — like against Paris Saint-Germain — risks repeating the same issues:
- Inviting pressure
- Losing control
- Struggling to create chances
But attacking with pace:
- Puts United on the back foot
- Silences the crowd
- Gives Liverpool a genuine outlet
It’s about intent
Even with players missing, Liverpool still have weapons.
The question is whether Slot chooses to:
- Protect the team
or - Back the players he has
Using Ngumoha and Frimpong sends a clear message:
👉 Liverpool are here to hurt United — not just survive.
Final thought
This is a game where bold decisions can pay off.
With Gakpo central and pace out wide, Liverpool have a chance to turn a difficult situation into an opportunity.
Play safe, and it could be another frustrating night.
Play with intent, and it might just catch United off guard.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
The Kopite View 
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