Premier League: Liverpool 3-1 Arsenal - 5 Talking Points and Tactical Analysis

#4 David Luiz showcases the two sides of his defensive coin

Luiz (L) wasn't at his best against Liverpool

Through the summer of 2019, Arsenal searched fervently and frantically for a centre-back to ease their defensive woes. The aforementioned task became slightly more arduous when club captain, Laurent Koscielny decided to forego years of service and push for a move away.

Consequently, the Gunners brought on board David Luiz and Kieran Tierney on deadline day to bolster their back line. While the Emirates faithful might’ve been yearning for a younger defender than the Brazilian, there was no denying that the ex-Chelsea player would bring tons of experience and leadership to the Arsenal set-up.

Luiz started his North London tenure soundly too and turned in an accomplished display against Burnley. However, one always reckoned that his acid test would arrive at Anfield. And, it’s fair to say that he didn’t quite cover himself in glory, especially in the second period.

The Brazilian held his own in the first half and read Liverpool’s offensive moves efficiently. Additionally, he was a towering presence in the penalty box and headed numerous crosses away. However, everything unravelled rather spectacularly once the sides changed ends.

Luiz conspired to give away a daft penalty, minutes after the restart when he pulled Salah back blatantly after being flummoxed by the Egyptian’s passing interchange with Firmino.

A few minutes later, the defender sold himself down the river when he ventured high up the pitch in an effort to nick the ball off Salah. The Reds forward skipped past the static Brazilian expertly and raced away from him before curling the ball past Bernd Leno.

Throughout his career, the centre-back has alternated between the ridiculous and the spectacular. Unfortunately for him and Arsenal, against Liverpool, he flourished flickeringly before floundering emphatically.

And while the debate of whether the Gunners were right to sign the Brazilian might well rage deep into the night, his performance on Sunday only emphasised the double-edged defensive sword David Luiz possesses.