Liverpool’s Premier League Triumph: An Analysis of the Best XI
Liverpool’s thrilling Premier League season culminated in glory as Virgil van Dijk lifted the trophy, marking a significant achievement for the club. With a new managerial approach under Arne Slot following Jurgen Klopp’s departure, questions arose about the team’s evolution and performance. Who stood out as the best players in this successful campaign?
How Did Liverpool Maintain Consistency?
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the transition to a new manager, Liverpool emerged as a steady force in the league. They maintained their position at the top from November 2 onwards, defying expectations for a title challenge. Slot’s strategy emphasized a core group of players who consistently performed, leading to their selection in the best starting XI of the season based on data from FotMob, which provides comprehensive player statistics.
The chosen formation, a 4-3-3, reflects Slot’s fluid playing style. The players selected were determined by their FotMob ratings and their suitability for their respective roles, highlighting the importance of both individual performance and team dynamics.
Unpacking the Best XI
Liverpool’s best XI, as ranked by FotMob, includes:
– **Alisson** (Goalkeeper)
– **Trent Alexander-Arnold** (Right Back)
– **Ibrahima Konate** (Center Back)
– **Virgil van Dijk** (Center Back)
– **Andy Robertson** (Left Back)
– **Ryan Gravenberch** (Central Midfielder)
– **Dominik Szoboszlai** (Central Midfielder)
– **Alexis Mac Allister** (Central Midfielder)
– **Mohamed Salah** (Right Wing)
– **Cody Gakpo** (Left Wing)
– **Luis Diaz** (Striker)
This selection reflects not only the players’ individual contributions but also their cohesion as a unit throughout the season.
What Made Mohamed Salah Stand Out?
No discussion of Liverpool’s best XI would be complete without acknowledging Mohamed Salah. With an astonishing tally of 29 goals and 18 assists, he was not only the highest-ranked player in Liverpool’s squad but also in the entire Premier League. Salah’s FotMob rating of 8.00 underscores his impact, as he created the most big chances (27) and boasted the highest expected goals (25.4 xG) in the league.
Salah’s performance was a testament to his extraordinary talent and work ethic, and his ability to consistently deliver in crucial moments made him an indispensable asset to the team.
The Midfield Engine
In midfield, Alexis Mac Allister emerged as a crucial figure, finishing with a rating of 7.39. His consistent performances and influential play earned him a place among the top players of the season. Joining him were Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai, who also made significant contributions, showcasing the depth and versatility of Liverpool’s midfield.
Gravenberch, in particular, was recognized as the Premier League’s Young Player of the Season, reflecting his potential and growth throughout the campaign. Szoboszlai added flair and creativity, further enhancing the team’s midfield dynamism.
Defensive Solidity
Liverpool’s backline featured a blend of experience and youth. Virgil van Dijk, a stalwart in defense, maintained a rating of 7.34, exemplifying his leadership and defensive prowess. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Ibrahima Konate provided additional strength, while Andy Robertson, despite a lower rating, was still considered the best left-back option due to his consistent performances.
This defensive unit not only contributed to the team’s overall resilience but also played a pivotal role in transitioning from defense to attack, demonstrating the modern demands placed on full-backs in today’s game.
What Lies Ahead for Liverpool?
As Liverpool looks ahead to the summer transfer window and the next season, questions abound regarding potential changes to the squad. With a solid foundation established, will they seek to reinforce key areas or maintain the successful core? The best XI of the season, as chosen based on comprehensive data analysis, sets a high standard for future performances.
In the realm of football analytics, tools like the FotMob app continue to provide fans and analysts with in-depth insights, enhancing the understanding of player performances and team dynamics. As Liverpool prepares for their next chapter, the lessons learned from this season will undoubtedly shape their approach moving forward.