Liverpool’s unfortunate season continues as the team powerlessly fell to Everton in April, ending their chances of securing a top-four finish. Additionally, injuries have been a significant concern for Liverpool this season, affecting the team’s performance in numerous games. Although Liverpool has put on some promising performances this season, it has struggled to make a mark on the league, falling short of expectations.
Klopp takes responsibility for Liverpool’s poor performance
Liverpool’s manager, Jurgen Klopp, has taken full responsibility for his team’s poor performance this season. Despite previously setting high standards alongside Manchester City in the English Premier League, Liverpool currently sits 19 points behind. The German manager signed a new contract in April to rebuild the struggling team, but unfortunately, things have not gone smoothly.
Liverpool relying on midfield rebuild
One area that Liverpool is looking to rebuild this summer is its midfield ranks. The team’s midfielder has struggled all season, and Klopp has acknowledged that changes need to be made. In 2016, Klopp built his midfield around James Milner and Emre Can as a double pivot with Adam Lallana starting on the right wing but shifting inside to fill the ‘box-to-box’ role. However, injuries have prevented Klopp from starting his preferred midfield trio of FabinhoKeita-Oxlade-Chamberlain.
Struggles with counter-attacking and defense
Another pressing issue facing Klopp is Liverpool’s struggles with counter-attacking and defense. The team has only scored five goals from fast breaks this season (the joint-second most in the Premier League) despite attempting 27 fast breaks (the most in the league). Moreover, Liverpool has conceded five goals from 27 fast breaks faced this season – just one counterattacking goal fewer than it conceded across the previous four seasons combined.
Crucial upcoming matchups
Liverpool has some tough matches ahead, including games against City, Chelsea, and Arsenal in an eight-day period. These struggles of the upcoming matches may make or break their chances of qualifying for next season’s Champions League.
Klopp remains optimistic
Despite the struggles, Klopp remains optimistic and is already planning for the next transfer window. The club will likely spend money on new players to rebuild and strengthen their midfield ranks. Klopp recognizes the need for change and starting anew after a specific amount of time. Liverpool may have to reboot its midfield again this summer.
In conclusion, Liverpool’s struggles continue in the English Premier League due to injuries, midfield issues, counter-attacks, and defense struggles. However, Klopp remains optimistic and is already planning for the next transfer window to strengthen the team for a better season next year.
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