In a strategic masterstroke that signals potential transition, Liverpool secured a vital 2-0 Premier League victory against West Ham United while legendary forward Mohamed Salah watched from the substitutes’ bench for the first time since April 2024. Manager Arne Slot’s bold lineup decision on November 30, 2025, proved transformative as the Reds ended their concerning slump of nine defeats in twelve matches.
The tactical reshuffle saw record-signing Alexander Isak break his league goal drought since his £125 million transfer from Newcastle United, while creative maestro Florian Wirtz demonstrated why Liverpool invested £116 million in his services. The Dutch manager’s reconstruction included deploying Joe Gomez at right-back for his first league start in eleven months, which simultaneously solidified Liverpool’s previously leaky defense and liberated Dominik Szoboszlai from defensive duties to focus on attacking contributions.
Cody Gakpo delivered a standout performance, providing the assist for Isak’s opener before sealing the victory with a powerful stoppage-time finish. The clean sheet marked a significant defensive improvement after conceding ten goals across their previous three matches.
While Salah’s benching dominated pre-match discussions, Slot emphasized the Egyptian’s continued importance to the club, noting his recent contract extension and ‘special player’ status. However, with Liverpool’s dramatic dip in form and Salah’s upcoming participation in the Africa Cup of Nations, the manager’s selection suggests strategic planning for the future.
The victory provides crucial breathing space for Slot amid mounting pressure, demonstrating that his ambitious £450 million summer rebuild might finally be showing promising signs of cohesion and effectiveness.