It has become clearer in recent weeks that reigning Premier League champions Liverpool are no longer in the race for the English top-flight title. In fact, at the moment Manchester City seem to be running away with the league.
Jurgen Klopp’s team followed up a 4-1 home defeat against the Citizens last weekend with a 3-1 defeat at top-four rivals Leicester on Saturday afternoon. The defeat saw the usually reliable Alisson make another mistake, as he collided with debutant centre-back Ozan Kabak.
The Brazilian goalkeeper has now made three errors leading to goals in the space of just two Premier League games. The errors have been uncharacteristic for a goalkeeper who has been such a solid performer since his arrival on Merseyside in 2018.
People will point to the defensive issues as the main cause of Liverpool’s faltering title bid. That may be true of late, but the whole team has just seemed flat for much of the campaign.
The forward players have not been as vibrant, although Mohamed Salah still has 17 Premier League goals this season. The likes of Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino have not been at their best. The trio’s understanding seems to have waned in recent weeks.
With the title now seemingly gone, the Reds must now attempt to cement their position in the Champions League for next season. The race for fourth spot now seems wide open. Both Chelsea and West Ham could leapfrog the Reds if they win their games on Monday night.
Their city-rivals Everton also trails Klopp by just three points, but have a game in-hand on the champions.
There is no doubt that their still quality in that Liverpool squad, but their level has dropped from their insane form of last season and they are now paying the price for it.
Trent Alexander-Arnold called on Liverpool to rediscover their habit of converting positive performances into victories.— Liverpool FC (@LFC) February 14, 2021
Trent Alexander-Arnold called on Liverpool to rediscover their habit of converting positive performances into victories.
Failing to make the Champions League for next season would be a disaster for the reigning champions.