Liverpool's journey to defend the Premier League title started promisingly with 5 consecutive wins. However, warning signs for them have appeared right from the opening match and are still clearly emerged.
The loss to Chelsea last weekend means Liverpool lost the top spot to Arsenal. Meanwhile, Manchester City are also closely behind, creating significant pressure. After a summer of spending big, Arne Slot was tasked with ensuring that the club's investment would bring worthy results.
Liverpool entered the October international break after 3 consecutive losses in all competitions, and the team's attack is becoming the focus of attention. Expectations are high on two record-breaking new signings, Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak, who have yet to show their true class.
Defensively, The Kop are paying the price for the lack of control in the midfield and upfield areas. In that context, Milos Kerkez has not shown stability, while Ibrahima Konate has been questioned about his concentration, especially when rumors of a free transfer to Real Madrid appeared next summer.
Even top stars like Mohamed Salah cannot avoid difficulties at Anfield. His form has been declining since the end of last season, and the Egyptian is still struggling to find a goal. Salah has only scored one goal from a live ball in the Premier League this season.
Impressive players
It would be no surprise that Dominik Szoboszlai has been Liverpool's standout player this season, largely due to his impressive performances at right-back.
It is no surprise that Alisson Becker is right behind. The goalkeeper's recent injury has been a big blow to Liverpool.
Federico Chiesa should also be highly appreciated, despite having played little. The Italian striker's influence is undeniable.
Ryan Gravenberch has missed the first two games but has left a strong impression, especially in his performance against Everton. Meanwhile, Hugo Ekitike is the only rookie to show his acceptance for the "Red Brigade".
Players who play well
Curtis Jones has had consistent performances, although not really excellent. Virgil van Dijk also shined in the away match at Newcastle, while Andy Robertson played quite well.
Florian Wirtz has had a good start, although his lack of goals suggests he still has a lot to improve.
Meanwhile, Cody Gakpo is another player who, although not in good form, still knows how to shine. The Dutch striker has occasionally contributed important goals, such as against Chelsea.
Players who need to improve their performance
The fact that too many of the players are below average and most of them are regular starters further highlights why Liverpool are struggling this season.
Conor Bradley is still trying to catch up after being absent for the pre-season due to injury. Meanwhile, right-back Frimpong is also facing physical problems as he adapts to the new environment.
Liverpool's biggest concern right now is Salah, who has scored 3 goals and had 3 assists. However, overall he still plays inconsistently and does not make a significant difference in the attack.
Meanwhile, Isak has some excuses for not having time to prepare for the season and is trying to find a place. On the contrary, Konate continued to show completely opposite form compared to the last months of last season.
Kerkez has been too impatient to impress in the first weeks, and his confidence has been severely affected. However, the worst player was Alexis Mac Allister, who clearly has not fully recovered from fitness problems.
