Liverpool’s once seemingly impossible task of finding a successor for Jurgen Klopp has become more manageable. Arne Slot, currently managing Feyenoord, is no longer in the running for the position. Instead, he may inherit a team struggling to secure Champions League qualification after a disappointing few weeks. Liverpool’s decline began with a self-inflicted FA Cup defeat to Manchester United, followed by a Europa League exit against Atalanta. Their title challenge has now crumbled after a string of poor results against Crystal Palace, Fulham, and Everton.
The TV documentary crew that has been filming Liverpool since December had hoped to capture a triumphant goodbye, but instead, they have documented a series of missteps. The recent loss to Everton was particularly painful for Klopp, as it marked their first home defeat against their rivals in over a decade. The defeat led to Everton fans taunting Liverpool, chanting, “You lost the league at Goodison Park.”
This defeat was a stark contrast to the state of the club a decade ago when Roy Hodgson was in charge. However, the current Liverpool team, previously in contention for the title, put up a pitiful performance against relegation-threatened Everton. Captain Virgil van Dijk questioned whether the players truly wanted to win the league, criticizing their lack of effort and missed opportunities.
Liverpool’s defensive vulnerabilities were on full display during the match, as they conceded cheap free-kicks and failed to defend against set-pieces. Their attacking prowess, which has often bailed them out this season, faltered with Darwin Nunez and Mohamed Salah both out of form. Nunez’s inability to deliver when it matters most has raised doubts about his ability to lead Liverpool’s attack. Salah, who was previously prolific, has struggled since returning from injury and has only managed to score two penalties in his last seven games.
The absence of Diogo Jota and Cody Gakpo due to injury and personal reasons, respectively, further highlighted the need for reinforcements in Liverpool’s attack. The midfield and defense also require strengthening, with Joel Matip and Thiago expected to leave when their contracts expire. Rather than a complete overhaul, Liverpool needs three or four high-quality additions to their squad.
If Arne Slot takes over as manager, he will have the task of revitalizing players like Dominic Szoboszlai and Ibrahima Konate, who have struggled recently. Injuries and a lack of rhythm have contributed to Liverpool’s decline, as has the pressure and emotion surrounding Klopp’s farewell. Klopp has publicly acknowledged the negative impact of the two visits to Old Trafford and has been unable to find solutions to the team’s problems.
Despite the recent disappointments, Klopp’s legacy at Anfield is secure. He is widely regarded as the most transformative figure in the club’s history since Bill Shankly. Slot is eager to take on the challenge of managing Liverpool, and his attacking style and track record of developing young talent make him a suitable candidate.
As Klopp’s era comes to an end and a new one begins, Liverpool’s weaknesses have been exposed. However, there is still hope for a strong finish to the season and a successful future under Slot’s leadership.