Liverpool’s chaotic 4-2 win over Bournemouth revealed that while the attack is strong, their defensive fragility remains an issue. Hugo Ekitike’s superb debut highlights why signing Alexander Isak might not be the priority for Arne Slot’s side.
Liverpool opened their Premier League campaign with all the thrills, drama, and chaos that could both win them the title and cost them dearly in the coming months. The fast-paced, action-packed 4-2 victory over Bournemouth at Anfield was full of promise, yet marred by an unsettling incident involving alleged racist abuse aimed at Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo. While this vile event deserves attention, it’s the footballing side that dominates here.
Liverpool’s Opening Night: Attack Meets Chaos
The Reds displayed their attacking power early, led by Hugo Ekitike, Florian Wirtz, Cody Gakpo, and the ever-dangerous Mohamed Salah. The quartet could easily outscore any team, including Bournemouth, and yet the victory highlighted one glaring vulnerability: Liverpool’s defensive fragility.
The focus of the game shifted when Antoine Semenyo proved his worth to the Cherries, scoring twice, capitalizing on massive holes in Liverpool’s defensive setup. Despite Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk being the anchors of the backline, the defensive setup was exposed far too often, especially with Ryan Gravenberch absent in midfield, unable to offer protection.
The Real Issue: Defensive Weaknesses
While Liverpool’s attack looks dangerous enough to win the title, Isak—who has been heavily linked with a move to Anfield—might be a luxury signing for a team that has far more pressing needs. As it stands, the weakness lies in the defensive third, and no amount of attacking brilliance will mask the issues that have yet to be addressed.
The defensive breakdowns were stark. Milos Kerkez struggled at left-back and was eventually substituted for Jeremie Frimpong, only for Wataru Endo to be exposed on the other side of the pitch. It was a repeat of last season’s problem: Liverpool’s high pressing leaving their centre-backs stranded and susceptible to fast counter-attacks.
Ekitike Shines Amid the Chaos
Despite the defensive chaos, Hugo Ekitike’s debut was a standout moment. His movement, vision, and energy were instrumental in Liverpool’s attack. Ekitike made a clear case for why Isak may not be the urgent priority for Slot’s side. With Ekitike showing his potential, and Salah providing the all-important goal, Liverpool’s attack is in good hands.
It wasn’t just the attack that shone in the opening match, however. Despite some underwhelming performances from Florian Wirtz and Frimpong, Liverpool’s spending spree is clear for all to see. Record-breaking transfer deals have brought in top talent, but their chaos-heavy approach has yet to prove it can defend as well as it attacks.
Prioritizing Defence Over Attack
The match illustrated that Liverpool’s defence is the key to their title hopes, not just their offensive firepower. Even if Isak were to join, it wouldn’t address their most pressing issue: the defence. Marc Guehi—linked with a move to Liverpool—could be a more important signing, bringing stability and composure to the backline, a quality that was sorely missing against Bournemouth.
The Future: A Title Defence in Limbo?
Slot’s approach, for all its flair and excitement, seems destined to drop points in the long run if defensive improvements are not made. The Premier League is a marathon, and Liverpool’s chaotic, attack-first mentality may catch up with them over time. The addition of Isak would only fuel the fire, but the Reds would be better off investing in a centre-back—someone who can provide much-needed balance to their title defence.
In the end, Liverpool’s transfer priorities seem slightly muddled. With the Ekitike debut and a talented squad, adding Isak could be an exciting move, but it may not be the smartest for a team that still struggles at the back.
For Liverpool, the message is clear: if they want to retain their crown, defensive reinforcements, not luxury attackers, should be the focus. But for the neutral observer, if it’s pure entertainment they’re after, then Isak and chaos would certainly deliver.
