Arne Slot Compares Plymouth’s FA Cup Approach to Man Utd

Liverpool Stunned by Plymouth in FA Cup Shock

Slot Draws Tactical Parallel Between Plymouth & Man Utd

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has compared Plymouth Argyle’s defensive tactics to those of Manchester United following the Reds’ shocking 1-0 FA Cup fourth-round defeat on Sunday.

Ryan Hardie’s second-half penalty secured a famous victory for the Championship side at Home Park, while a heavily rotated Liverpool squad struggled to create clear-cut chances. Despite a late push in stoppage time, Conor Hazard denied Liverpool a comeback.

The loss left Slot frustrated, as his team failed to break down a resolute defensive setup, much like in their 2-2 draw with Manchester United at Anfield in January.

Slot Criticizes Long-Ball Tactics

Speaking after the match, Slot expressed his frustration with Plymouth’s approach:

“You never know what would happen if we played with our starters. We have seen a few times this season that it is a game plan that is difficult for our starters but also for the ones that played today. Constant long ball, second ball, long ball, second ball. It’s difficult for every team.”

The Dutchman then likened it to United’s tactics in their 2-2 draw at Anfield, noting how United also sat deep, absorbed pressure, and relied on direct play to disrupt Liverpool’s rhythm.

Justifying His Squad Rotation

Slot also defended his decision to rotate ten players from the squad that thrashed Tottenham in the Carabao Cup:

“I think today we show why we played with those ones who played today because these players need game rhythm as well to be ready in the upcoming months. You saw today some of these players really need games like this to be ready for the last three months of the season.”

What’s Next for Liverpool & Plymouth?

While Liverpool exit the FA Cup, Plymouth advance to the fifth round, where they could potentially face Manchester United, who controversially edged past Leicester City on Friday.

Have Your Say!

Do you agree with Arne Slot’s comparison between Plymouth and Manchester United’s tactics? Should he have played a stronger lineup? Drop your thoughts in the comments! 👇