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Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has emerged as Liverpool’s preferred candidate to replace struggling Arne Slot, with the Austrian’s tactical approach potentially seeing Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo dropped from the starting eleven despite their previous contributions this season.
Glasner’s Tactical Revolution Would See Liverpool Stars Salah and Gakpo Benched
Liverpool’s recent struggles under Slot have intensified speculation about the Dutchman’s future, with the club earning just four points from matches against West Ham United and Sunderland.
Slot currently ranks among the favourites to become the next Premier League manager sacked, as pressure mounts ahead of Saturday’s crucial fixture against Leeds United.
Glasner’s preferred 3-4-2-1 formation would represent a significant tactical shift from Slot’s current approach, potentially offering solutions to Liverpool’s defensive frailties this season.
The system would see Alisson Becker retain his position as number one, while the defence would feature Virgil van Dijk alongside Joe Gomez and new signing Marc Guehi, who is expected to follow Glasner from Crystal Palace.
The wing-back positions would suit summer signings Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong, providing them with greater attacking freedom than their current roles under Slot.
Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister would anchor the midfield, though Adam Wharton could challenge Mac Allister’s position following his potential arrival in 2026.
The attacking positions would see Florian Wirtz and Dominik Szoboszlai operate as dual number tens behind striker Alexander Isak, effectively pushing Salah and Gakpo out of the starting formation.
This tactical revolution reflects Glasner’s commitment to his proven system rather than accommodating existing personnel.
Manchester United and Tottenham have also shown interest in Glasner, whose Crystal Palace contract expires next summer.
However, Liverpool’s status as defending Premier League champions makes them the most attractive proposition in any potential three-way battle for the Austrian’s signature.
