Liverpool FC is in the midst of a transformation that is far from over. Jürgen Klopp is eager for the new season, but it won’t automatically be better than last season’s mess. Liverpool in check.
How did the transfer window go?
After the early signings of Alexis Mac Allister (Brighton) and Dominik Szoboszlai (Leipzig), it has been idle for a few weeks now, at least in terms of new arrivals. The Reds have followed up their plan to rejuvenate the squad and especially the midfield with action and parted with some deserving players. James Milner moved to Brighton on a free transfer, Naby Keita to Bremen. Roberto Firmino joined Al-Ahli at the end of his contract and will join Jordan Henderson (Al-Ettifaq) and Fabinho (Al-Ittihad) in Saudi Arabia. The duo brought in around 60 million euros for LFC.
These are now to be reinvested, with Romeo Lavia from Premier League relegated Southampton FC still high on the list. According to media reports, three offers from the Reds for the defensive midfielder have been rejected so far, with the Saints demanding more than 50 million euros. However, Liverpool have now faced competition from Chelsea FC in their bid to land the missing piece of the puzzle.
Meanwhile, the offensive line-up is strong, while the depth of the squad is still manageable in the centre of defence and on the right side of defence. So it’s quite possible that something will happen in these positions as well.
What gives hope, what gives concern?
Jürgen Klopp’s good mood is back, the German presents himself “hot” for the new season. Shortly before the start of the Premier League, there is a mood of optimism around Anfield Road, the disappointing pre-season has been ticked off. Sometimes you need a setback to realise: ‘Ah, there’s the problem,'” said the 56-year-old after the successful dress rehearsal against Bundesliga side Darmstadt 98 (4-2).
In Liverpool, Klopp (contract until 2026) still enjoys complete backing, and the 56-year-old is expected to promote and implement the necessary change. For this, however, Klopp needs fresh personnel, and new sporting director Jörg Schmadtke is in demand. Other potential newcomers have missed the all-important preparation and must therefore be taught Klopp’s football during the season – not ideal. “The preparation for the season never ends after the first Premier League game. It goes until the first international break,” Klopp takes a bit of wind out of his sails on this subject.
The forecast
No one on Merseyside is likely to assume the title this year. Meanwhile, a top-four finish is a must for the club’s own aspirations. In view of the strong competition, nothing more can be expected from the rejuvenated team for the time being. It is also exciting to see how seriously Klopp takes the Europa League. Cup competitions are not high on the German’s list of priorities, but winning the title would guarantee a place in the Champions League.
A big challenge awaits the Reds on the first matchday. On Sunday, Liverpool are the guests of Chelsea FC. A duel between two teams in a state of upheaval.
