Liverpool’s title defence has taken a dire turn, as the team risks becoming the worst-ever champions in Premier League history. Following a lavish investment of £450 million on new signings this summer, expectations were high after the club secured its 20th league championship last season. However, after twelve games this season, Liverpool finds itself struggling, currently sitting in 11th position on the league table.
Arne Slot, appointed to succeed Jürgen Klopp, is navigating a challenging landscape this season. Once seen as the ideal successor, Slot now faces scrutiny as Liverpool’s performance has plummeted. The team has suffered six losses in their last seven league matches, including a 3-0 defeat at home against Nottingham Forest. This latest setback marks the first time since 1965 that Liverpool has lost consecutive league games by three goals.
The statistics paint a grim picture. Only José Mourinho’s Chelsea in the 2014-15 season have started a title defence worse than Liverpool’s current record, with seven defeats in their first twelve games. Historical comparisons show that both Blackburn Rovers (1994-95) and Leicester City (2015-16) recorded six losses in their opening matches as champions, ultimately resulting in disappointing finishes.
Slot’s challenges are compounded by a series of underwhelming performances from key players. Mohamed Salah has struggled to find the net, while significant summer signings such as Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz have yet to make a significant impact, with both costing over £100 million combined. Defensively, Ibrahima Konaté has been emblematic of the team’s struggles, contributing to a defensive record where Liverpool has conceded more goals than it has scored.
The pressure is mounting on Slot, who remains determined to turn the situation around. “Of course there is a way out, especially with the quality players we have,” he stated following the defeat to Nottingham Forest. He acknowledged his role in the team’s struggles, emphasizing, “I am responsible for the current losses.”
In a similar vein, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk called for accountability among the players. “As the champions, we can’t be in the situation we are in right now,” he said, highlighting the need for a collective effort to reverse their fortunes. “Everyone has to take responsibility.”
Slot faces numerous issues, particularly with his defensive lineup. The absence of goalkeeper Alisson Becker has been felt, as he recently returned from injury. Additionally, Slot’s decision to rely on Milos Kerkez as a replacement for Andy Robertson has raised questions about the team’s depth. The failed acquisition of defender Marc Guéhi on deadline day now looms large, especially with the injury of Giovanni Leoni, who is sidelined for the season.
Midfield dynamics are also problematic. Wirtz, who has yet to contribute a goal or assist in the Premier League, is struggling to adapt to the physical demands of English football. This has placed additional pressure on Liverpool’s midfielders, who are finding it increasingly difficult to support the attack.
The situation upfront is equally concerning. Isak has not scored a league goal since joining from Newcastle United, while Salah’s performance has raised eyebrows among supporters. Hugo Ekitike, another summer acquisition, has also failed to find the net consistently, managing just one goal in nine appearances.
As Liverpool prepares for the upcoming matches, Slot faces a critical juncture. Salah’s imminent departure for the Africa Cup of Nations may provide an opportunity for Isak, Wirtz, and Ekitike to step up in his absence. Yet, the pressure to perform is immense, and the team’s current trajectory raises fears of a finish reminiscent of Leicester’s infamous title defence.
The stakes are high for Liverpool, and with the season still in its early stages, fans are left wondering whether Slot can steer the team back to the top. The club’s legacy as Premier League champions hangs in the balance as they look to halt this alarming trend and reclaim their status as a dominant force in English football.
