Arne Slot must unleash key player as Liverpool await crucial answer to big question within 24 hours

In a dramatic 1-1 draw at Nottingham Forest, Liverpool had to fight back after an early deficit, and the key to their second-half resurgence came from an inspired double substitution. The importance of Kostas Tsimikas and Diogo Jota‘s first touches in this match may not be fully realized until later in the season, but their impact was clear.

For now, Arne Slot will be left reflecting on several missed opportunities, as Forest goalkeeper Mats Sels was in outstanding form, denying Liverpool a crucial victory. Sels was superb, keeping out efforts from Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo, and Jota, while Ola Aina also made a crucial clearance off the line. This resilience from Forest is exactly why they currently sit second in the league, showing their ability to withstand intense pressure from Liverpool’s attacking waves.

Though Forest may not challenge Liverpool for the Premier League title come May, their defense is proving formidable, and a top-four finish looks very attainable, especially with rivals like Chelsea and Manchester City faltering after their own 2-2 draws earlier this week. If Arne Slot truly believes those teams are still title contenders, then no ground was lost here for Liverpool.

In terms of defensive solidity, Forest certainly deserve recognition. Nikola Milenkovic and Murillo were exceptional, exemplifying why Forest have conceded only 20 goals in 21 games—matching Liverpool‘s defensive record. Only Arsenal have conceded fewer.

From the outset, Liverpool controlled the game, dominating possession against a Forest side that opted to sit back rather than press. The hosts were content to invite Liverpool forward and defend deep, but, as in their previous meeting in September, a sharp counterattack caught Liverpool off guard. Chris Wood capitalized on the hosts’ first shot on target, finding the net after just eight minutes.

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Omar Marmoush comments released as ‘Liverpool target confirms transfer agreement’

In a live update on the potential transfer saga of Omar Marmoush, it appears that the Egyptian forward could be heading to Manchester City this month, although Eintracht Frankfurt has yet to receive an official offer for the player, who is having a stellar season.

Speaking to the press, Frankfurt’s sporting director Markus Krosche confirmed, “There is still no inquiry, no email, no offer. Our intention is to keep the squad together.” This comes amid growing speculation linking Marmoush to top Premier League clubs, with reports from Sky Sports suggesting the 25-year-old has agreed a deal in principle to join Manchester City.

Marmoush has been in sensational form this season, with 18 goals and 12 assists in 24 appearances across all competitions for Frankfurt, making him one of Europe’s standout performers. Only Mohamed Salah has more goal contributions than Marmoush in the top five leagues. The forward, who plays alongside Salah for the Egypt national team, looks more likely to move to Manchester City than Liverpool at this stage.

Negotiations between City and Frankfurt are reportedly set to begin soon, as Marmoush has reportedly agreed to be part of Pep Guardiola’s squad. Frankfurt is believed to value the player at around $82 million, but Manchester City is expected to push for a deal closer to $52 million to $62 million. Frankfurt is likely to reject any offers significantly below their asking price.

City, who are currently without a recognized backup for Erling Haaland after selling Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid last summer, are looking to bolster their attacking options. While Haaland has scored 21 goals in 27 appearances this season, Phil Foden is the next highest scorer for City with just five goals, two of which have come in the Premier League. The addition of Marmoush could provide a valuable alternative, offering more versatility, agility, and a different playing style compared to Haaland—similar to the profile of Alvarez.