For years, Liverpool fans said ‘This is our year to win the title’ the expectations changed over the last few seasons, as German boss Jurgen Klopp helped the Reds become a force once again.
However, it seems that the Liverpool fans claims of it is going to be our year could finally have some credence. The Reds opened their Premier League campaign with a 4-0 hammering of West Ham at Anfield on Sunday. As an Evertonian, the situation is rather concerning.
Liverpool on fire
Last season Liverpool’s front three of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino were absolutely on fire in front of goal. The Reds scored 84 Premier League goals last season. Only champions Manchester City scored more goals in the top-flight.
Liverpool continued their prolific goalscoring form in preseason, which was promising for this season. The Reds opening day performance against the Hammers was typical of the Merseysiders under Klopp.
Mane, Salah and Firmino all once again produced vibrant displays and had a foot in all four goals. Mane scored twice, Salah scored his now inevitable goal and Firmino grabbed an assist.
The front three are all likely to continue to be prolific this season, while the likes of Naby Keita, Daniel Sturridge and Xherdan Shaqiri are likely to make a big contribution.
More solid at the back
Last season Liverpool’s weakness early in the season was in defence. However, Andrew Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold’s introduction and most importantly the signing of Virgil van Dijk has given the Reds a much more solid foundation for success.
Some will say that the Reds needed a new defensive partner for Van Dijk. However, Dejan Lovren showed at the World Cup that he could be solid when he concentrates on defending and not giving interviews about how great he is.
The big-money summer addition of Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson could also be a key move in making the team more solid. Alisson is a top goalkeeper and will win the team many points in the new season. His coolness will give the Reds defence confidence that he will be in command when they need him to be. A defence that has confidence in their goalkeeper tends to concede far fewer goals.
The one other factor in Liverpool potentially improving is the arrival of Brazilian central midfielder Fabinho. The former Monaco star was left out of the starting line-up against West Ham. However, he could prove to be a valuable player in the centre of the pitch in more difficult games later in the season.
Liverpool are dangerous challengers to Manchester City
It seems that Liverpool are the team best equipped to challenge Manchester City for the title this season. In fact, the Reds are second favourites to win the title at odds of 10/3.
Klopp’s side showed in the meetings with City in the Champions League last season that they can beat the champions. In fact, on their day Klopp’s side can beat any team in Europe.
It is very early in the campaign. However, the signs are positive for Liverpool’s title challenge this season. The big question marks will be when the Reds can cut out the mistakes and silly defeats against inferior sides.
Only time will tell if Liverpool can really challenge the Citizens. If they can carry on in a similar vein to the end of last season and their opening game, the Reds will be there or thereabouts when it comes to the league title.
Are Liverpool the biggest threat to Manchester City this season?
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