Liverpool kicked off the Arne Slot era with a convincing victory over Spanish outfit Real Betis in Pittsburgh, marking a promising start to the new season.

Hungarian captain Dominik Szoboszlai scored the only goal of the game as Liverpool fielded 23 players in a workout that saw them experiment with different formations and tactics.

Here, we break down five key takeaways from the match…

Unconventional formation

Slot’s Liverpool took on a unique 4-2-4 shape, with Szoboszlai and Harvey Elliott playing as dual No 9s. The Hungary skipper found the back of the net, and the formation showed promise, with Liverpool playing through the lines with pace and vertical passes.

The two midfielders sat deep, screening the defense and starting attacks, while Mohamed Salah and Fabio Carvalho provided width, allowing the two No 9s to exploit spaces. The fullbacks, Kostas Tsimikas and Conor Bradley, offered energy on the overlap, with Bradley shining in the first half.

Arne Slot’s Liverpool formation resembled an attacking 4-2-4 shape for most of this match

Jones’ injury concern

Curtis Jones’ confidence was short-lived, as he lasted just 30 minutes before suffering an apparent hamstring injury. The midfielder had spoken about his desire to kick-start his career under Slot, but his comments seemed to be a curse.

Liverpool will be hoping the injury is not serious, but it was a worrying sight to see Jones leave the pitch in pain.

Curtis Jones only lasted 30 minutes with what appeared to be a hamstring injury

Nyoni shines

Jones’ exit paved the way for 17-year-old Trey Nyoni, who made a stellar impression off the bench. The teenager was positive in possession, playing a key role in the opening goal and showing plenty of energy in midfield.

Nyoni’s display was a bright spot, and he could be a shoo-in for the man of the match award. His every touch seemed to create something positive, and Liverpool’s coaching staff will be delighted with his progress.

Trey Nyoni replaced Jones in midfield and grabbed his opportunity with an impressive display

Defensive midfield concerns

Wataru Endo struggled in midfield, and Liverpool’s need for a top-class No 6 is still evident. The Japan captain was caught in possession several times, and Real Betis could have taken the lead if not for poor finishing.

Tyler Morton replaced Endo in the second half and showed promise, but Liverpool still need to strengthen in this area if they want to challenge for the Premier League title.

Wataru Endo struggled in midfield, highlighting the need for Liverpool to sign a No. 6

Backroom staff make their mark

Slot’s new coaching team, including assistants Johnny Heitinga and Sipke Hulshoff, were animated on the sidelines, constantly barking orders and advice to the players.

Heitinga led the warm-up drills, while Hulshoff was in dialogue with players throughout the match. The new performance head, Ruben Peeters, is said to be meticulous when it comes to managing players’ workloads, and Liverpool used 23 players in total.

Slot’s newly-hired assistants Johnny Heitinga and Sipke Hulshoff (left) were both animated