‘Ekitike doesn’t belong on the bench” — Carragher slams Slot’s Liverpool tactics

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has taken aim at manager Arne Slot for his team selection, insisting that Hugo Ekitike’s continued absence from the starting lineup is hurting the Reds’ attack.

Ekitike, who was born in France to Cameroonian parents, has found himself benched against Man United despite being one of Liverpool’s standout performers since joining the club.

His omission has sparked widespread debate among fans, particularly after another uninspiring display from Alexander Isak in the 2–1 defeat to United.

Carragher was scathing in his analysis, suggesting that Slot’s tactical decisions have disrupted the team’s balance and undermined their title ambitions.

“Every Liverpool supporter has been having sleepless nights trying to work out what system they should play and players they should use,” he said on Sky Sports.

“Liverpool’s business didn’t feel Liverpool-like, it felt Real Madrid-like — buying the most expensive players. Ekitike has been Liverpool’s best signing — on the bench. And Wirtz, on the bench.”

The former England international also questioned the club’s record £120 million investment in Isak, who has yet to score in his first four Premier League appearances.

“I was one of the few who wasn’t big on Isak coming in,” Carragher said. “It’s not good for Isak having Ekitike on the bench — he knows if he doesn’t do something in the first 60 minutes, then he could be off.”

Carragher urged Slot to find a way to accommodate both strikers in his system, rather than limiting Ekitike’s impact.

“I think Slot has to find a way of getting both of them on the pitch,” he added. “It was a Real Madrid summer — I think he now has to be a Madrid manager.”

Liverpool will face Brentford next weekend, with pressure mounting on Slot to find a winning formula.