There has been a significant drop off in performance levels since last season. In particular the high energy levels which the reds have consistently played with over Jürgen Klopp’s tenure. It’s a way of football which has seen them win the lot in the in recent years, most notably the Champions League in 2019 and the illusive Premier League title in 2020 in what was a historic period for the club.

1. Lack of investment

Standards have evidently plumited this season both on and off the pitch. Their has been a notable lack of investment since after the Champions league win in 2019 which has seen teams either catch up with them or go past them (Arsenal a prime example this season). You can never stay still when at the top and that’s exactly what Liverpool haven’t done. Investment is clearly a big reason but a lack of ruthlessness is also a slight problem. Liverpool rely too heavily on players who have a well documented injury record. The likes of Keita and Thiago although undoubtedly talented only tend to play between 20-30 games a season. Liverpool feel the effects of the void left by the two when they’re not playing. There was a point last season for example where Thiago had started 9 games, with Liverpool winning all 9 of them. This is a stark contrast to the games without Thiago (20 played and only 11 won). These types of players are crucial to Liverpool gaining control in matches and they don’t have any alternatives.

Thiago and Keita are the only two midfielders that Liverpool have signed in the last 4 years which to be honest is absolutely mind boggling. This is also an area which is arguably the most important area of a ‘Klopp side’. It requires legs and courage and tenacity, three words which at this moment in time you wouldn’t associate with it. There must be investment in younger hungry midfielders who have a good degree of technical ability and injury record and at least one who is press resistant. Wijnaldum for example, fit the bill in terms of this type of midfielder. Both Thiago and Keita have shown they can play this role to a high level but aren’t always available.

It’s also clear that many players in the team suffer from lack of competition. Fabinho and Trent in particular are victims of this as they are almost untouchable even when in bad spells of form. We have seen first hand what good competition can do to players e.g. the signing of Tsimikas as competition for Robertson. This was the kick that the latter needed to keep his levels up as he knew failure to do so could mean time out of the team. The same needs to happen for others in the squad. Ultimately this all comes down to investment !