BongDa.com.vn Before the big match with Arsenal in the Premier League, Liverpool coach Arne Slot faces many personnel problems, especially in defense with the worrying form of Ibrahima Konate and Milos Kerkez.

A thrilling 3-2 win over Newcastle United may have provided a temporary sense of excitement, but behind those dramatic three points lies a host of concerns for manager Arne Slot as Liverpool prepare for a huge clash with Arsenal at the weekend. Two games, four goals conceded, defensive gaps and midfield instability are raising  tough personnel questions for the Dutchman.

The focus of concern is certainly in defence, where Slot ’s experimentation has not yet brought reassurance. The left-back position is proving to be a problem. Milos Kerkez, despite some improvement, was at fault for the first goal against Newcastle. His defensive inexperience may have to give way to Andy Robertson’s experience in a top-flight game that demands total concentration. The curious absence of Kostas Tsimikas from the starting XI has added to the confusion over Slot’s plans for the position.

On the opposite flank, although Dominik Szoboszlai had an impressive performance in his role as a makeshift right-back, the return of Conor Bradley from injury and playing the last few minutes of the match was a very encouraging sign. Bradley’s return is expected to return Szoboszlai to his preferred midfield position, while also bringing more balance and solidity to the right flank.

Meanwhile, in the heart of defence, Ibrahima Konate is having a forgettable start to the season. However, with new signing Giovanni Leoni yet to make his debut and Joe Gomez only considered a reserve option, Slot has little choice but to continue to put his faith in the French centre-back to partner captain Virgil van Dijk. The only hope is that the understanding between the pair will improve soon.

Midfield is also where manager Arne Slot will have a headache to calculate. The return of Alexis Mac Allister after missing the Newcastle game will be a decisive factor. If the Argentine is fit, he will almost certainly partner Ryan Gravenberch in the holding midfield position, recreating the partnership that played so well in April. But if Mac Allister continues to be absent, Curtis Jones and Wataru Endo will be the alternatives, or even Szoboszlai could be moved deeper.

Will Slot make any changes?

The position of “number 10” of expensive rookie Florian Wirtz is also a question mark. Although his start has not been really convincing, he is still expected to continue to be given opportunities. However, the pressure from names like Szoboszlai, Jones or Harvey Elliott is not small, and Slot can completely create a surprising change.

Up front, things look more settled. Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo are almost certain to take the two spots on the wings. The centre-forward spot is an interesting contest between Hugo Ekitike, who has three goals in three games, and Federico Chiesa. Teenage star Rio Ngumoha, despite being a hero against Newcastle, is unlikely to be given a start in a game of such importance.

Facing an Arsenal team in good form and leading the rankings, coach Arne Slot will have to make the most accurate personnel decisions. A wrong choice could cost Liverpool dearly in the race to defend the title.