Liverpool manager Arne Slot has stood by his decision to introduce Wataru Endo instead of Federico Chiesa during the club’s 1-0 loss to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge — a choice that sparked mixed reactions among supporters.
With Liverpool trailing late in the game, many expected Slot to bring on an extra attacker to chase an equaliser. Instead, he opted for Endo, a move some fans saw as overly cautious. However, the Dutch tactician insists it was a necessary adjustment to regain balance in an increasingly chaotic contest.
“If you look at the substitution we made, we brought Endo on — who we normally use when we need a bit more control,” Slot explained. “The last 10–15 minutes were so open, and even though we could still create chances, we definitely needed stability because Ryan Gravenberch was already playing as a centre-back.”
Slot also rejected suggestions that the substitution signalled a defensive approach, maintaining that Liverpool still went all out to find a goal.
“I don’t think that change was too defensive,” he added. “The rest of our substitutions were attacking because we were 1-0 down and trying to win.”
Liverpool’s defeat has reignited discussions about Slot’s tactical decisions and whether the team’s lack of composure in key moments is costing them crucial points. As pressure mounts, the manager’s ability to balance control with attacking intent will be closely scrutinised in the coming weeks.
