Premier League: Disastrous start by Liverpool in the Champions League
Liverpool has started the season on an uncharacteristic note as they couldn't win the first three games of the Premier League
Jurgen Klopp's side settled for a 2-2 draw against newly promoted Fulham and couldn't avoid a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace after that.
They lost 1-2 to rivals Manchester United and are currently in the seventh position behind Chelsea. Liverpool is now facing a barrage of problems and has a massive responsibility of turning the season around.
Liverpool FC had been a consistent club for the last few years and was running a bid to secure a quadruple. However, things have slid downhill, and their recent 4-1 loss to Napoli has added to their misfortune.
Sadio Mane's departure has left them weak
Senegalese player Sadio Mane took a leave for Bayern Munich this summer, leaving a significant gap in the team. He had a strong presence at Anfield, and his absence has left a considerable gap.
The 30-year-old forward is being missed by the Merseysiders, who have replaced him with Luis Diaz, known for his technique and pace. However, he is not ready to fill in the void left by the departure of Mane.
Sadio Mane used to pose a more significant threat to the opposition due to his positioning, speed and aerial skill.
Injury issues
As of now, several players from the starting XI are down with serious injuries. Midfielder Fabio Carvalho had to depart half-time in the Merseyside derby with a leg injury.
Meanwhile, Reds captain Jordan Henderson quit during the second half of Liverpool's 2-1 win against Newcastle United as he sustained a hamstring injury. The midfielder is expected to be back after the international break.
Other players unfit to compete are Curtis Jones, who has been benched due to a flare-up to a previous injury. Naby Keita, plagued by a muscle issue, and Ibrahima Konate, who was ruled out during the second half of the friendly with RC Strasbourg Alsace.
Diogo Jota is also down with an injury which is a contributing factor to their ill fate.
Lack of creativity in midfield
Liverpool's midfield has been far from strong this season, and the situation has worsened due to Thiago's injury. Although he is back, the centre of the lineup has not found its pace yet.
Despite James Milner's presence, they struggle to create space and opportunities for the forward line. With Klopp's side filled with midfielders who are currently injured and a weak transfer window this summer, the struggle continues.
Poor defence and Coordination
Liverpool has been outsmarted in the game of defence this season. The offside trap has not been adequate for the Reds, and top defenders like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk have committed pricey errors in the first three matches of the premier league.
Klopp now needs to help his team regain their footing as the rate at which they are conceding goals is an alarming issue that needs to be urgently resolved.
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