Jamie Redknapp Slams Arne Slot’s Decisions After Liverpool’s Costly Defeat
Liverpool’s disappointing loss to Crystal Palace has opened the floodgates of criticism, with Jamie Redknapp leading the charge. The former Reds midfielder expressed his frustration with Arne Slot’s tactical decisions, particularly the underuse of Federico Chiesa and the questionable positioning of Florian Wirtz. According to Redknapp, Slot’s insistence on starting Wirtz in an unfamiliar role while leaving Chiesa on the bench until the closing stages of the match is holding the team back.
Speaking after the game, Redknapp made his feelings clear. He admitted he was baffled by Slot’s strategy, pointing out that Chiesa completely changes the dynamic of Liverpool’s attack whenever he steps onto the pitch. “Every time Chiesa plays, Liverpool look sharper, more dangerous, and more unpredictable. To limit him to just 15 minutes is a mistake. He has proved time and again that he should be one of the first names on the team sheet,” Redknapp argued.
Chiesa’s record this season supports that claim. Despite being used mostly as a substitute, the Italian winger has already tallied two goals and two assists in just six appearances. That level of impact in limited minutes makes him one of Liverpool’s most efficient attacking threats. Redknapp stressed that such productivity cannot be ignored, adding that Chiesa has “earned the right to start regularly” and that Liverpool “cannot afford to waste his talent” when crucial games are on the line.
Fans across social media have echoed Redknapp’s concerns. Many have pointed out that Wirtz, while clearly talented, is being played out of position in ways that harm both his confidence and his effectiveness. Some argue that Slot’s decisions are limiting Liverpool’s attacking flow, with one supporter writing, “Every time Chiesa touches the ball, something happens. Wirtz is being sacrificed in a system that doesn’t suit him.” The consensus among supporters is that Slot is making tactical missteps that are beginning to cost the club valuable points.
The Wirtz versus Chiesa debate has quickly become a focal point in discussions around Liverpool’s current struggles. Analysts believe Slot must find a way to balance the two players, perhaps by redesigning the attacking system rather than forcing one into an unsuitable role. For now, though, Chiesa’s omission from the starting lineup remains the biggest talking point, especially after his lively cameo against Palace.
For Arne Slot, the pressure is mounting. Taking over from Jurgen Klopp was always going to be a daunting task, but the spotlight is now intensifying after this defeat. With Redknapp’s harsh words circulating and fans growing restless, Slot must make quick, decisive changes to restore confidence. Liverpool’s upcoming fixtures against top Premier League rivals leave him little margin for error.
The question now looms large over Anfield: Will Slot finally recognize Chiesa’s value and hand him the starting role he has earned, or will he continue to prioritize Wirtz at the expense of Liverpool’s attacking rhythm? The answer may well determine whether Liverpool bounce back or slip further behind in the race for silverware this season.
