Welcome to the Premier League, Arne Slot! Liverpool’s new manager faced a tough initiation on Saturday with a 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest at Anfield, marking the Reds’ first defeat of the season. Callum Hudson-Odoi’s goal was the difference, ending Liverpool’s perfect start to the league.
Before the international break, Liverpool had been impressive, particularly in their dominant win over Manchester United, showcasing a style reminiscent of Jurgen Klopp’s best years. However, against Forest, they struggled defensively and offensively. Despite controlling possession, they failed to click in the final third, and their blunt attack proved costly.
Alan Shearer, on *Match of the Day*, criticized Liverpool’s frustration with Forest’s defensive tactics. Forest’s compact setup in midfield stifled Liverpool’s attacking efforts, leaving them unable to create clear scoring opportunities despite substitutions aimed at boosting the attack.
Darwin Nunez, who replaced Diogo Jota after the hour mark, was criticized by Shearer for his performance. Shearer noted Nunez’s inability to win a crucial battle with Forest’s Nikola Milenkovic, which allowed Forest to counter-attack and eventually score through Hudson-Odoi.
Shearer also pointed out that Nunez “didn’t add anything to the game,” while Forest’s defensive organization and individual performances were praised. Forest’s full-backs, Moreno and Aina, were effective against Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz, respectively, while Milenkovic and Murillo were crucial in repelling Liverpool’s attacks.
The decisive moment came when Milenkovic won the ball from Nunez, leading to a counter-attack that saw Anthony Elanga assist Hudson-Odoi for a stunning goal that secured Forest’s victory.
**Nunez’s Ongoing Struggles**
Nunez’s issues at Liverpool, following his high-profile 2022 transfer, persist. Despite his significant transfer fee, he has struggled to secure a regular starting spot and his inconsistent performances are becoming a concern. With Mohamed Salah’s future uncertain, Liverpool needs dependable goal-scoring options, which Nunez has yet to provide. His ongoing difficulties could see him fall further down the hierarchy if his form doesn’t improve.
**What’s Next for Liverpool?**
This defeat highlights that Arne Slot and his team need to address their shortcomings, particularly in breaking down compact defenses. As Liverpool prepares for their upcoming UEFA Champions League match against AC Milan at the San Siro, Slot will aim to quickly rectify these issues and regain the form that saw them triumph over Manchester United.
