Can Coach Slot Prevent Liverpool from Becoming the Premier League’s Worst-Ever Defending Champions?
Liverpool Football Club invested £450 million in new signings during the summer transfer window, aiming to solidify their status as a dominant force in English football. After securing their 20th league title last season, expectations were high for their title defense under coach Arne Slot. However, after 12 games, Liverpool finds itself on a path that threatens to mark them as the worst defending champions in Premier League history.
Current Situation for Liverpool
Under Slot’s management, Liverpool has struggled dramatically. The team currently sits in 11th place, with a notable decline in form since September 27, suffering six losses in their last seven league matches. This includes a disappointing 3-0 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest, marking the first time Liverpool has lost successive league games by three goals since 1965.
Historical Context
- Only José Mourinho’s Chelsea in the 2014-15 season have had a worse start, with seven defeats in the first 12 games.
- Blackburn Rovers and Leicester City also faced similar struggles as defending champions.
Challenges Faced by Coach Arne Slot
Despite being viewed as the ideal successor to Jürgen Klopp, Slot has found this season significantly more challenging. Liverpool’s losses can partially be attributed to key players’ underperformance. Mohamed Salah has seen a dip in goal-scoring, while big-money signings Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz have yet to justify their high price tags, contributing to the team’s poor displays.
Defensive Issues and Personnel Problems
Defensive frailties have been a persistent issue. Ibrahima Konaté’s form has deteriorated, compounding the struggles of captain Virgil van Dijk. Liverpool failed to secure a deal for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi before the deadline, and injuries have further hampered their defensive options.
Midfield Challenges
- Wirtz has yet to score or assist in 11 league appearances.
- Backup options like Giovanni Leoni are sidelined due to injury.
- The midfield’s inability to cope is exacerbated by the defense’s unreliability.
Offensive Struggles
Offensively, Liverpool’s forward line has also faltered. Isak has not found the net in the league since joining from Newcastle, causing frustration among the fans. Salah, last season’s standout player, appears disconnected, raising questions about his commitment following a summer where his future was uncertain.
Looking Ahead
As Liverpool prepares for key fixtures, the pressure mounts on Slot to reverse this troubling trajectory. In his post-match comments, Slot acknowledged his responsibility for the team’s poor results and expressed belief in their potential to recover. The question remains, however—can Slot avert Liverpool from the ignominy of being the Premier League’s worst defending champions?
With a third of the season gone and results not improving, the upcoming matches will be critical for Slot and his squad. Quick, decisive action will be essential if Liverpool hopes to salvage its season and avoid historic embarrassment.
