Liverpool's defensive frailties were again exposed as they squandered a two-goal lead to lose 3-2 to Monaco in their penultimate pre-season friendly at Anfield. The result echoed recent struggles, with self-inflicted errors and a lack of depth proving costly.
Ndukwe impresses despite looming loan
The only new signing to start was 18-year-old centre-back Ifeanyi Ndukwe, who continued his impressive pre-season with another dominant display. However, Ndukwe is not eligible for the upcoming campaign, with a season-long loan expected. His performance in a problem position will frustrate both the player and head coach Andoni Iraola.
Iraola hopes the loan arrival of Ronald Araujo from Barcelona will ease the discomfort, especially with £60million capture Jeremy Jacquet yet to feature and both Joe Gomez and Giovanni Leoni ruled out for the start of the season. Virgil van Dijk returned to action but inadvertently highlighted the issues that cost Arne Slot his job.
Errors prove costly
Liverpool were comfortably ahead when Van Dijk needlessly fouled Aleksandr Golovin in the area, allowing Monaco to score from the penalty spot. After Ndukwe departed at half-time, Wataru Endo, who hadn't played since February, stepped in and was at fault for Mika Bierheth's equaliser. Monaco's late winner came from a corner headed in by the unmarked Paris Brunner.
For the second consecutive friendly, the Reds lost after being two goals up, with their strength in depth questioned as they faded dramatically after substitutions. While pre-season is for ironing out kinks, such defensive failings have been a recurring theme.
Time to address the backline
Given Iraola has had only weeks with his new players, some repetition of last season's mistakes is understandable. Getting Araujo up to speed and finally having Jacquet available will offer something different. With the real season two weeks away, addressing the leaky rearguard is crucial for Iraola to impose his ideas. Moving forward starts at the back.
