Liverpool’s 2023/24 campaign has come to a close, marking the end of the Jurgen Klopp era at Anfield. As fans reflect on the season, it’s clear that several young players showcased their potential, but one standout performer emerged as the star man for the Reds.
According to contributors from This Is Anfield, Virgil van Dijk claimed the top spot with an average rating of 8.71. In his first season as Liverpool captain, the Dutchman demonstrated near-perfection in many games, often single-handedly holding together a struggling defense. Despite being 32 years old, Van Dijk is expected to remain a key player for years to come.
Alexis Mac Allister, a midfielder who grew into a majestic presence on and off the ball, secured second place with an average rating of 8.42. The Argentine showcased his versatility, initially struggling as a No. 6 but eventually flourishing further up the pitch. His stunning goals against Fulham and Sheffield United highlighted his ability to score in spectacular fashion.
Jarell Quansah, a young center-back who experienced a meteoric rise this season, claimed third place with an average rating of 8.28. Quansah emerged as Virgil van Dijk’s preferred partner at the heart of Liverpool’s defense. Despite a small blip with an error against Manchester United, the youngster showcased his class on the ball and displayed an impressive reading of play. Quansah’s inclusion in England’s provisional squad for the Euros is a testament to his rapid development.
Caoimhin Kelleher and Conor Bradley tied for fifth place with an average rating of 8.07. Kelleher, stepping in for the injured Alisson Becker, proved to be a dependable goalkeeper, even earning praise as a Man of the Match contender in the Carabao Cup final. Bradley, a Northern Irishman who emerged as a genuine right-back option, delivered an outstanding performance against Chelsea, arguably the best by any Liverpool player throughout the season.
Harvey Elliott, a highly effective substitute with 11 assists in all competitions, secured eighth place with an average rating of 7.85. The 21-year-old Englishman displayed growth in terms of both belief and physicality, making him a potential star under new manager Arne Slot. However, Slot will need to find the right role for Elliott from the start of games to fully maximize his impact.
Mohamed Salah, despite an underwhelming season by his high standards, finished in ninth place with an average rating of 7.50. The Liverpool legend still managed to score 25 goals and provide 14 assists in all competitions. However, his lowest league goal tally since joining the club raises questions about his long-term future at Anfield.
Diogo Jota, who had an impressive goal-scoring record of 15 goals in just 19 starts, claimed the tenth spot with an average rating of 7.42. However, constant injuries limited his playing time and prevented him from making an even bigger impact for the team.
Overall, the 2023/24 campaign showcased a mix of great, good, average, and disappointing performances from Liverpool’s players. While there were standout performers like Van Dijk and Mac Allister, there were also players who struggled to meet expectations, such as Kostas Tsimikas and Ryan Gravenberch.
As new manager Arne Slot takes over from Jurgen Klopp on June 1, it will be interesting to see how he maximizes the potential of these talented young players and addresses any areas that need improvement. With the right guidance and development, Liverpool’s youngsters could become key figures for years to come, ensuring continued success for the club.