Liverpool FC's transfer window has been buzzing with speculation, and in this hypothetical scenario, the Reds have secured two high-profile signings: Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi and Newcastle United's Alexander Isak. These additions would address key areas in defense and attack, providing manager Arne Slot with even greater tactical flexibility and squad depth. Guehi, a composed centre-back, would bolster the backline alongside stalwarts like Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate, while Isak's clinical finishing and versatility up front could elevate Liverpool's goal-scoring threat. Let's dive into how the team might line up, potential formations, substitute options, and the impact on various competitions.
Possible Formations and Starting Lineups
Under Arne Slot, Liverpool has shifted from Jurgen Klopp's traditional 4-3-3 to a more controlled 4-2-3-1, emphasizing build-up from the back in a 4-2 shape, vertical transitions, and overloading central areas. Full-backs often sit deeper to form triangles during possession, allowing for quick progression. With Guehi and Isak, Slot could tweak this further for balance.
Primary Formation: 4-2-3-1
GK: Giorgi Mamardashvili – Joined in July 2025; excellent distribution for build-up.
RB: Jeremie Frimpong – Dynamic replacement for Alexander-Arnold; attacks like a winger.
CBs: Virgil van Dijk & Marc Guehi – Van Dijk's leadership with Guehi's positioning (signed August 2025 for defensive solidity post-Konate injury concerns).
LB: Milos Kerkez – from Bournemouth; provides width over aging Robertson.
DMs: Ryan Gravenberch & Alexis Mac Allister – Pivot for stability; Gravenberch's energy shines.
AM: Florian Wirtz – Creative hub; links play with 10+ goals/assists expected.
RW: Mohamed Salah – Still the talisman at 33; extended contract.
LW: Cody Gakpo – Versatile after Díaz's exit; shifts inside.
ST: Alexander Isak – signing (September 2025); pace and finishing elevate the attack.
Alternative Formation: 4-3-3 (For High Press)
GK: Mamardashvili
Defense: Frimpong, Van Dijk, Guehi, Kerkez
Mid: Mac Allister (deep), Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai (box-to-box)
Forwards: Salah (RW), Isak (ST), Wirtz (LW/false 9)
Wirtz on the left exploits spaces; Isak's work rate fits Slot's press.
Substitutes and Depth
Attack: Hugo Ekitike (rotation for Isak; 22 goals last season), Luis Díaz (if he stays, but likely sold), Federico Chiesa (backup winger, but linked to Italy), Rio Ngumoha (16-year-old wonderkid; scored vs. Newcastle on August 25).
Midfield: Curtis Jones (versatile), Stefan Bajcetic (returning from injury), Tyler Morton (if unsold).
Defense: Ibrahima Konaté (Guehi rotation), Conor Bradley (RB cover), Jarell Quansah (sold, but Joe Gomez if loan recalled).
GK: Alisson (backup/mentor), Harvey Davies.
Depth handles cups and Europe; young talents like Ngumoha get minutes in FA/Carabao Cups.
This rebuilt squad positions Liverpool as favorites for domestic and European success.
