Liverpool’s attempt to defend their Premier League title has been marred by a worrying slump, following three defeats in a row with the latest being a cruel 95th-minute loss at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea. The Reds were also unfortunate on the 97th minute against Crystal Palace and limp in the Champions League against Galatasaray. All in all, this marked the first time under Arne Slot that Liverpool lost three consecutive matches.
Estevão’s late strike for Chelsea brought about another devastating result for a team that was, up to a point, getting used to the opposite kind of late drama this season. Apart from the goal, Liverpool’s poor display — especially in the first half — gave rise to new worries about teamwork and sharpness. Even with only two new regular starters, the Reds hardly resembled the relentless squad that came into the season with seven straight wins.
However, after the defeat, Slot advised the fans to keep calm. He is of the view that Liverpool’s problems come down to “fine margins” and the emotional strain of a difficult summer that includes the death of Diogo Jota and the arrival of several large-money signings. “If we had drawn today, people would say we’ve had a great start considering what happened in the summer,” he suggested.
On the other hand, Salah’s downturn in performance with just five goals over the past 21 matches, and Alexander Isak’s slow adaptation have also been factors in the Reds’ decline. Although he still insists it’s not the time for panic, Slot referring to it as part of a “transitional phase”.
Liverpool’s reply will definitely be with the Manchester United game at Anfield which could decide if this difficult period is just a brief lull — or a first indication that there are bigger problems with their championship defence.
