Liverpool's alarming decline hit a new low on Wednesday night as they suffered an embarrassing 4-1 home defeat to PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League, intensifying scrutiny on manager Arne Slot and his underperforming squad.
Carragher's Stark Assessment
Reds legend Jamie Carragher has delivered his verdict on the deepening crisis at Anfield, acknowledging that the situation is becoming increasingly difficult to defend. The heavy loss marked Liverpool's ninth defeat in their last twelve matches across all competitions, with this being the fourth time in six games they've lost by a three-goal margin.
Despite a substantial summer investment of £446 million on players including Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak, and Hugo Ekitike, Slot's team appears significantly weaker than the title-winning side of last season. This dramatic downturn has placed the Dutch manager under unprecedented pressure from sections of the fanbase.
Legends in Decline?
Carragher pinpointed the dramatic drop in form of several key players as central to Liverpool's struggles. He made the startling claim that Mohamed Salah's 'legs have gone', noting the Egyptian forward's dramatic decline from last season's remarkable tally of 57 goal contributions in 52 games to just five goals in 18 appearances this campaign.
The analysis didn't stop there. Carragher also suggested that Virgil van Dijk is 'not the same player' and can no longer help others, instead needing support himself. With goalkeeper Alisson frequently injured, the three pillars that once formed the foundation of Liverpool's success are simultaneously faltering.
A Club at a Crossroads
Carragher emphasised that Liverpool is not a 'sacking club' and historically gives managers time, having never dismissed a league-winning manager in their history. However, he acknowledged the situation could become 'untenable' if results don't improve soon.
'I'm really angry with the players,' Carragher stated, directing criticism away from Slot for now. He challenged other squad members to step up, questioning whether they can only perform when carried by the team's established stars.
The CBS Sports pundit also called for greater leadership, specifically urging Mohamed Salah to address supporters directly about what's happening within the dressing room and provide hope for improvement.
Carragher concluded with a sobering warning that Liverpool's current struggles might offer 'a snapshot of the future' when legendary figures like Salah, Van Dijk, and Alisson eventually move on from the club.
