Liverpool’s Concerns over Defense
Jurgen Klopp’s team once again failed to keep a clean sheet and suffered a defeat against Bayern Munich. One might label this as a friendly match or a routine encounter, but it’s evident that Liverpool fans have reason to worry about their defense as the new season approaches.
The attacking front has seen significant changes and garnered much attention from The Kop in recent times. Players like Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez, Cody Gakpo, and Mohamed Salah have shown improved cohesion and effectiveness. Particularly, Nunez has been refining his finishing abilities and rediscovering his goal-scoring touch for the reds.
At times, fans attribute unfavorable results solely to the lack of prowess from Darwin Nunez or Cody Gakpo. However, in the recent series of friendly matches, both Nunez and Gakpo have consistently found the back of the net. This highlights the real concern lying within Liverpool’s defense.
Bayern Munich is a strong team, but conceding four goals is simply unacceptable for The Kop. It’s possible that the lineup was shuffled excessively due to the friendly nature of the match. However, one must face the reality: Klopp fielded what should have been the strongest defensive lineup. In every situation, the German strategist would never risk failure or tarnish his reputation. Moreover, rotating the lineup is quite normal, especially for a team like Liverpool that needs versatility.
On the pitch at the Singapore National Stadium, Liverpool’s defense featured Andy Robertson, Virgil van Dijk, Joel Matip, and Trent Alexander-Arnold – the cream of the crop in Klopp’s possession. Despite leading 2-0 after 28 minutes, the Reds still lost 3-4 to Bayern. Van Dijk and Matip frequently displayed positional errors and lack of focus in the defensive line. Concerns also stem from previous friendly matches, where The Kop barely managed a 4-2 win against German second-tier side Karlsruhe, drew 4-4 with Greuther Furth, and only kept a clean sheet in a 4-0 victory over Leicester.
While not yet at an alarming level, the vulnerabilities exposed in the defensive line raise worries among Liverpool fans. Virgil van Dijk’s performance has notably declined since the 2022-2023 season. The Dutch center-back often opts for safety over aggressive challenges, often paying the price against opponents who play more directly. Van Dijk’s declining form is evident in aerial duels, despite his ideal height.
Though entrusted with the captain’s armband, the Dutch defender brings a sense of composure and lacks the necessary assertiveness, in stark contrast to the days of Jordan Henderson. The English midfielder was ready to reprimand teammates, argue with referees, and engage in physical challenges with opposition players.
The partnership alongside Van Dijk is also a significant issue. Joe Gomez has never instilled confidence in The Kop’s faithful. Joel Matip’s prime seems to have passed, and Ibrahima Konate’s fitness is a real concern. If, unfortunately, Van Dijk sustains an injury, the remaining combinations at center-back often lead to uncertainty.
Trent Alexander-Arnold is naturally a right-back but has been tested in a midfield role. Despite receiving much praise, it’s clear that Liverpool’s already fragile defense becomes even more delicate. Consequently, Andy Robertson often has to tuck into the central defense to provide support, essentially becoming the third center-back whenever Arnold pushes forward. In such situations, Klopp appears to be playing a double-edged sword.
Liverpool is undergoing a summer of changes, bidding farewell to several midfield players including James Milner, Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Jordan Henderson, and Fabinho. They’ve added two midfield recruits in Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai. However, the defense has seen virtually no personnel changes.
Everyone understands that The Kop is striving to make a strong comeback in the Premier League after a disappointing season. The absence from the Champions League further reinforces the determination of the Merseyside squad to chase the remaining trophies.
Liverpool has bolstered its midfield and possesses numerous options in the attacking front. Nevertheless, Klopp seems overly confident in the defensive sector. Without addressing these vulnerabilities, the team at Anfield could face more significant challenges than anticipated.
