Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has expressed his frustration following the club’s disappointing 4-1 defeat to PSV Eindhoven in the UEFA Champions League on November 27, 2025. Rather than placing the blame on manager Arne Slot, Carragher believes the responsibility lies squarely with the players, particularly highlighting the performances of key figures Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, whom he suggests may no longer perform at the highest level.
In a candid discussion on CBS Sports, Carragher stated that he does not foresee Slot losing his job, emphasizing Liverpool’s unique culture that typically supports managers even through challenging periods. He noted, “Liverpool’s not a sacking club. The manager is the king, the manager gets time.” This statement reflects the club’s history, as they have never dismissed a manager who has won the league.
While Carragher is supportive of the managerial position, he is vocal about his dissatisfaction with the current squad’s performance. He remarked, “I’m angry with the players, if I’m being totally honest.” He expressed concern that the team is beginning to reflect the decline of its once-dominant players, stating that the club’s fortunes have drastically changed since their peak under former manager Jürgen Klopp.
Carragher pointed out that Liverpool’s recent struggles are evident, particularly in the performances of Van Dijk and Salah. “You watch Van Dijk now, not the same player, and Mo Salah looks like his legs have gone,” he said. The former defender believes that the club must see leadership from these veterans, especially during tough times. He urged Salah to address the supporters directly, offering reassurance about the team’s prospects moving forward.
Amidst the turmoil, Carragher questioned the overall quality of the squad, suggesting that some players may have relied too heavily on the brilliance of Van Dijk and Salah in previous seasons. He added, “Can you only play well when they play well?” This raises concerns about the depth and resilience of the current squad.
Carragher also highlighted the importance of leadership within the team. He noted that as Van Dijk and Salah struggle, other players need to step up and take on more responsibility. “When they’re not there, where are the others?” Carragher asked, alluding to the need for a stronger collective effort.
The defeat against PSV marks a troubling chapter for Liverpool, which has seen a string of disappointing results in recent months. Fans are left wondering how the club will address these challenges as they look to regain their former glory.
With Carragher’s insights, it is clear that the players must reflect on their roles and contributions to the team’s current situation. The path forward for Liverpool will require both individual and collective accountability if they hope to reverse their fortunes in the coming matches. The looming question remains: can the squad rally together to restore its competitive edge, or are deeper changes necessary to move forward?
