Liverpool's defeat to Brentford wasn't just a blip for the reigning champions - it was the clearest sign yet of a team that has haemorrhaged its predatory edge. The Reds are stumbling through a genuine crisis, having plummeted to seventh in the Premier League after four straight defeats.
It is a slump that has exposed cracks in Arne Slot's setup and raised uncomfortable questions about whether last season's title triumph was a masterclass or a fluke. With Arsenal pulling away at the top, Liverpool's aura of invincibility is fading fast and fans are starting to whisper about something deeper.
Sunday's result takes Liverpool's goals conceded to 14 in just nine league games - almost triple the total at this stage last season. It is also the first time they have lost four league matches in a row since 2020/21 - a season plagued by a monumental title hangover and questionable recruitment.
Mo Salah's late consolation goal against Brentford, brilliant as it was, simply papered over the cracks in his troubling recent form. There was a time when he terrified defenders just by drifting into space. Now, that fear has gone. The Egyptian no longer explodes past opponents or forces mistakes with his movement. He is all too easy to contain and to predict, especially with his pace dulled and his confidence waning.
That is why it might be time for Slot to make the tough call and take him out of the firing line. Dropping Salah would be bold, but it could also be healthy - a reminder that reputation alone does not guarantee game-time. It would also give the likes of Hugo Ekitike, Florian Wirtz and even young Rio Ngumoha the chance to stake a claim and inject fresh energy and movement into the attack.
If Liverpool's back line keeps leaking goals at this rate, something has to give. A shift to a 3-4-3 could be exactly what Slot's side needs to restore some defensive balance without blunting their attacking intent. With three centre-backs, the Reds could finally plug the gaps that have been so easily exploited in recent weeks, especially on the counter.
