Arne Slot must start 'fabulous' ace vs Leeds United, he could be their secret weapon

Liverpool have performed well below their usual levels since the start of the 2025-26 season.

Most fans thought that they would cruise to another Premier League title but in reality, that's been far from the case.

Almost all of the Reds' first-team have been in poor form this term with only one or two exceptions emerging from the squad.

And, even though they didn't lose against Sunderland on Wednesday, the fact that they only just managed to get a draw from the clash is a massive cause for concern.

This is why Arne Slot may need to try something new against Leeds United on Saturday, before it's too late.

Arne Slot must start Federico Chiesa in Liverpool's game vs Leeds United

Federico Chiesa hasn't been given anywhere near as much game time as he deserves this season.

The Italian has often been left on the bench by Slot despite the performances of Mohamed Salah being well below par.

However, whenever the Dutchman has brought him on, he's often had a positive impact with his last-ditch tackle on Sunderland's Wilson Isidor being one of the main reasons why the Reds left Anfield with any points at all on Wednesday.

He may not be as good as prime Salah but the fact that he never stops running and that he also has a keen eye for goal proves that he deserves a chance.

Chiesa could also be used as a striker if Slot want to try and use either Hugo Ekitike or Alexander Isak on the wing.

However, with Dominik Szoboszlai being played out of position and Salah clearly out of favour, there has quite literally never been a better time for the Italy international to be handed a start by the Dutchman.

Of course, it could end up making things worse but the fact that Liverpool have only won one of their last five games makes it feels like things can't get much worse.

Federico Chiesa starting for Liverpool would also benefit Dominik Szoboszlai

As mentioned, since Salah has been left on the bench for Liverpool's last couple of games, this has meant that Szoboszlai has been used as a right-winger.

And, although he's Mr Versatile and would likely be happy to play anywhere on the pitch, it's clear that the Hungarian thrives when he's used in the centre of the park.

He has, on occasion, been used at right-back this term but with the way things were panning out, it was clear that the Reds needed his ability to endlessly run up and down the pitch in midfield.

So, if Slot chose to start Chiesa in Salah's place on Saturday, this would allow Szoboszlai to play in his preferred position and likely put the odds in their favour, especially if he manages to put in another "fabulous" performance like he did against Southampton.

These are all just ifs, buts and maybes at the moment but with how Liverpool's season has gone so far, it feels like they need to try anything to get themselves back on track.

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