Liverpool FC has been going through a rough patch this season, and fans are turning their frustration towards the club’s owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG). The team has struggled in both domestic and European competitions, with no trophies to show for their efforts. Despite the lack of silverware, FSG is still holding on to the club, and fans are split on whether they should stay or leave. In this article, we will delve into Liverpool fans’ reaction to FSG’s ownership and the possible outcomes.
Liverpool’s Struggling Season and Fear of Getting Left Behind
Last season, Liverpool was on track for an unprecedented quadruple, while Manchester City led the Premier League title race by a solitary point. However, this season tells a different story. City is playing catch-up in pursuit of leaders Arsenal, while Liverpool is out of all cup competitions and sits sixth in the Premier League table. Fans fear that the club may be getting left behind amid state-of-play elsewhere in football where other teams are attracting powerful investments.
FSG’s Evaluation and Talks for Strategic Partnerships
To add fuel to the fire, FSG evaluated sanctioning a full sale last November but no suitable offers have been forthcoming for an asset valued between £3 billion and £4 billion. Instead, talks are ongoing to find the right “strategic partner” to help grow the club further. Some supporters were eagerly anticipating an influx of cash to enhance the club’s spending power in this transfer market while others were more cautious about who may end up taking over.
Fans’ Opinions Towards FSG
There is a vocal minority who have long been against US organization FSG’s stewardship, with a growing number of social media users calling for #FSGOut after every game setback. The finger of blame is pointed at owners for not backing Klopp sufficiently in the transfer market. However, there is a disconnect between social media and real life, and the protests against the owners planned online didn’t materialize.
The Success of FSG Regardless of Fans’ Opinions
FSG has transformed Liverpool on and off the field since their $300 million takeover in October 2010. Liverpool FC has won titles, trophies, and twice in the past four seasons, they have missed out on the title by a solitary point. In addition, FSG invested some £240 million in the club’s infrastructure, including a new Main Stand and training complex at Kirkby. They will also increase the stadium’s capacity to 61,000 with the redeveloped Anfield Road Stand.
Furthermore, during FSG’s reign, Liverpool FC Foundation’s important work has expanded across Merseyside and beyond, improving the lives of thousands of people. While FSG doesn’t take money out of the club, they expect Liverpool to live within their means.
Transfer Dilemma for Liverpool’s Midfield After Fans’ Call for Recruitment
Liverpool has strict labor to deal with this summer as their midfield department needs strengthening. Midfield anchor Fabinho has had an indifferent season in terms of form and his dropoff being alarming at times. Manager Klopp may consider selling Fabinho if he determines that they have seen the best of him as he is still a sellable asset with a valuation of $55m (£45m/€51m) according to Transfermarkt.
Sofyan Amrabat of Fiorentina is a possible replacement for Fabinho, and Liverpool FC has been linked with him in the past week. Liverpool FC and Tottenham are reportedly battling for Amrabat’s signature and transfer talks have been opened with his agent. Klopp may need to decide whether to focus on more pressing concerns this summer or take a difficult but potentially rewarding decision for the long-term to replace him while he can still command a sizable fee.
Liverpool Back in Action with Upcoming Match
Liverpool FC is finally back in competitive action after a long wait. Their Champions League exit against Real Madrid felt like a while ago due to the nature of their exit from the competition. Liverpool’s upcoming match against Manchester City is crucial for both teams. Liverpool.com has also selected two articles related to Liverpool FC, including a potential new defender and a ‘bid’ made for the club’s number transfer target.
Liverpool has tabled a formal offer for Borussia Dortmund star Jude Bellingham in the race to sign him. Additionally, Liverpool may have to consider signing a free transfer player like Eintracht Frankfurt defender Evan Ndicka, who could be a shrewd signing.
SOS’s Role and Fans’ Representation at Boardroom Level
Liverpool FC fans have mobilized in the past against ticket price increases, attempts to trademark the word ‘Liverpool,’ and the use of government furlough schemes during pandemics. SOS (Spirit of Shankly) secured legally binding fan representation at boardroom level with the launch of the supporters’ board last August.
The supporters’ board branded the two per cent increase for most seats for 2023-24 as “cruel, unjust, unreasonable and unfair.” SOS officials were accused of going easy on FSG even though they have been holding the club’s owners accountable for their decisions, regardless of who the owners are.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Liverpool fans are divided over FSG’s ownership of their beloved club. The lack of silverware and missed quality signings have not helped matters either. However, it is undeniable that FSG has brought notable success on and off-field since their takeover. The current struggling season doesn’t bode well with some fans while others seek patience hoping that FSG can lead them back to former glory.
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