Liverpool CAN win the Premier League title next season if they shape their squad well. Will that happen? Time will tell.
Courtesy: Sky Sports
After coming off a very good season analysts and fans alike expect Liverpool to hit the ground running when the new season kicks off.
Fans are especially happy with progress made under new coach, Jurgen Klopp. Securing a Champions League spot and finishing fourth in the Premier League table is evaluated as a good achievement.
So there’s a feel-good factor surrounding this club. The era of targeting a top-four finish is gone. Now is the time for Liverpool to mount a serious title challenge. The last time Liverpool came close was the 2013-2014 Premier League season when the club finished second behind Manchester City.
One issue to address is the upside-downside associated with Liverpool’s pressing game. The club commits a lot of bodies forward when on a front foot and defends in numbers when they lose possession. That tactic has given Klopp the winning formula against big teams, but Liverpool struggles against lesser teams, especially at home.
That outcome shows something is still lacking in the team. My take is that Klopp’s high-intensity style can’t be sustained for the entire season. Players burn out towards the peak period of the season.
Can Jurgen Klopp lead Liverpool to a Premier League title? I believe it’s possible, but more work needs to be done.
Championship teams are ruthless against weak opponents and win ugly when they are off-pace against strong opponents. Liverpool has not been able to do that. That’s because this club lacks the mental toughness required to mount a serious title challenge.
Yes, Jurgen Klopp is a coach with a brilliant philosophy who uses an attacking style of football. Yes, he has assembled a good squad. But Klopp needs more players who have a strong winning mentality.
Philippe Coutinho has proven to be that type of player. Klopp needs more players like Coutinho, players who can dictate games and take responsibility on the pitch when the going gets tough. That’s why Liverpool needs to make one or two statement signings this summer.
Philippe Coutinho (photo, Liverpool Echo)
The club has already announced the signing of Mohamed Salah from Roma. But I don’t think Salah is a statement signing. Statement signings require Liverpool to compete in the transfer market with big clubs.
While it remains to be seen whether Liverpool has the funds to compete, the quality of reinforcements during the transfer window will determine what to expect from Jurgen Klopp’s side next season.
Defence is an area of special need. Liverpool conceded 42 goals in the Premier League last season–more than any of the top four rivals. Another area of need is the wings. Liverpool needs to inject more pace on the flanks.
Liverpool CAN win the Premier League title next season if they shape their squad well. Will that happen? Time will tell.
