Liverpool haven’t been at their best over the current campaign, even after spending a whopping £450m in the summer transfer window.
Despite winning the Premier League title last season, the Reds are now battling for a spot inside the Champions League qualifying places and have found it near impossible to even attempt to defend their crown.
Indeed, there have been many changes in squad personnel on the red side of Merseyside, with experienced players such as Luis Diaz and Trent Alexander-Arnold moving on, as well as the shocking loss of Diogo Jota.
Even with elite newcomers like Hugo Ekitike, Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz, it was always going to be a big ask for Liverpool to comfortably retain their high standards due to the turnover of players and the undeniable effects of losing a much-loved teammate in such tragic circumstances.
However, Liverpool have set exceptional standards for themselves as a club, and nothing short of Champions League qualification will be acceptable when the campaign draws to a close.
Injuries have also played a major part in Liverpool’s troubles, with most of the new arrivals spending time on the sidelines at various points during the season.
Giovanni Leoni, in particular, has been ruled out for the entire campaign with an ACL injury.
The Reds have undoubtedly suffered defensively more than anywhere else on the pitch, with all right-back options depleted at one stage.
Addressing the fragility and lack of depth in the defensive options available to Arne Slot is already under way ahead of the summer, with the £60m signing of Jeremy Jacquet in the January window a clear example of the efforts the club is making to rectify the ongoing situation.
However, a new report from The Athletic has dealt another huge blow for Liverpool, with Jacquet set to undergo shoulder surgery after picking up an issue while playing out the remainder of the season with Rennes.
The publication has revealed that, after several medical tests over the last four weeks, a decision has been made for Jacquet to have surgery and that he will not kick a ball again this season.
It is claimed that the Liverpool medical team are in communication with Rennes to ensure there is a clear understanding of his recovery timeline and the factors that will determine whether he can return for Liverpool’s pre-season in July.
Will Liverpool sign another defender?
There is no doubt that Liverpool have plenty of issues to address in the summer if they are to get back to their best.
Pre-season is expected to welcome back Leoni, alongside the arrival of Jacquet, with both exciting prospects for the future.
However, with the potential for further outgoings in the summer transfer window, there could be a gap in experienced depth.
The future of Ibrahima Konate remains uncertain as contract negotiations continue to ensure the Frenchman does not leave the club on a free in July, while Andy Robertson is also set to be out of contract.
There are many factors behind Liverpool’s struggles this season, but there is a strong argument that the huge change in personnel and lack of experience within the squad have been among the biggest hindrances to their ability to challenge.
Steadying and stabilising the squad to ensure everyone is aligned before next season will be essential to getting back on track, that will include both adding further depth in key positions and retaining experience within the group.
With that being said, it would be naïve not to acknowledge that Liverpool are in a period of transition.
It will be crucial for Slot and the recruitment team to strike the right balance between establishing a new chapter and maintaining quality on the pitch.
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