Slot Stumbles as Moyes’ Tactics Expose ‘Ordinary’ Van Dijk and Echo Arteta’s Struggles

Arne Slot endured a tough tactical lesson as David Moyes outmaneuvered him, exposing defensive frailties and drawing comparisons to Mikel Arteta’s past struggles. In a game where Liverpool was expected to dominate, West Ham’s disciplined setup and clinical execution left Slot searching for answers.

Moyes, often criticized for his conservative approach, showcased his tactical acumen by frustrating Liverpool’s attacking rhythm and exploiting their defensive vulnerabilities. At the heart of those struggles was Virgil van Dijk, who looked far from the imperious defender he once was. The Dutch center-back, once regarded as one of the world’s best, found himself exposed repeatedly, with critics branding his performance as “third-rate.”

Slot’s game plan seemed to unravel under pressure, much like Arteta’s early managerial missteps when his Arsenal side struggled against well-organized teams. The tactical battle saw West Ham nullify Liverpool’s attacking threats while capitalizing on defensive lapses, a stark contrast to the fluid, high-energy football Slot aspires to implement.

The result leaves questions about Liverpool’s ability to adapt under Slot’s guidance, with concerns growing over Van Dijk’s form and the team’s defensive resilience. While it’s still early days, this match served as a reality check for Liverpool’s new boss—one that will demand serious reflection moving forward.