Liverpool fans endured a season of soft rock after years of heavy metal football under Jürgen Klopp. Now, after Arne Slot's sacking, the club must redefine its style.
Mohamed Salah's blunt assessment that Liverpool need a new approach was correct. Last season under Slot, the team failed to dominate opponents and often looked overrun.
The new head coach will need to implement an attacking style that best uses available talent.
Anfield does not want back-foot football; supporters want to see swagger in red.
A disconnect grew between Slot and fans in the final months. The Dutchman lacked Klopp's vivacious personality and results, while the tedious style alienated the crowd.
The successor must build a strong bond between stands and dugout, founded on attractive play.
Wirtz and Isak Key to Future
After heavy summer spending to build a squad for Premier League dominance, few players thrived.
Hugo Ekitiké was the best of the new arrivals, but record signings Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak barely featured.
Isak struggled with fitness and a leg fracture.
Wirtz's first taste of English football was sour; he never looked comfortable as a No 10, lacking speed and strength.
Getting the best out of Wirtz must be a priority. He has the capability to open defences and control games but needs a confidence boost.
Midfield Lacking Physical Edge
Wirtz is part of a wider midfield issue: a lack of physicality and an obvious No 6.
Ryan Gravenberch was Slot's choice for the role, effective when possession stats favoured Liverpool, but the team needs someone who can break up play.
Every other top team has a destroyer; Liverpool have not had one since Georginio Wijnaldum or Fabinho.
Dominik Szoboszlai was moved around the pitch unhelpfully; he can be one of the best central midfielders but needs a defined position.
New leaders and voices are needed.
Departing players like Salah and Andy Robertson, despite their experience and winning mentality, saw their on-pitch influence wane.
Ibrahima Konaté is also leaving, creating a recruitment headache.
It may be time to sell Alisson Becker, who has suffered injuries, and allow a new generation to start afresh with Virgil van Dijk leading the transition.
The club may need to acquire players in their late-20s with Champions League experience.
Defensive headaches await the new head coach. Konaté's exit will be softened by Jérémy Jacquet's arrival, but further investment is needed.
Van Dijk's longevity is unknown, so finding a long-term partner is critical. A rugged centre-back like Nottingham Forest's Murillo could offer balance and aggression.
Competition for Milos Kerkez will be important; if Andoni Iraola takes the job, the reunion could help the Hungarian flourish.
On the opposite side, continuity would help after Slot tried numerous players out of position.
Conor Bradley or Jeremie Frimpong could make the role their own if they stay fit.
Replacing Salah and bringing in pace on the wings is imperative. Salah is off, Federico Chiesa will likely leave too, freeing up space.
Rio Ngumoha offered glimpses of excitement, while Frimpong was often used on the wing due to his speed.
Targeting new wide men like RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande, Brighton's Yankuba Minteh, or Athletic Club's Neco Williams would bring thrust and get supporters off their seats.
