Liverpool look to reset after Klopp's midfield is gutted

Juergen Klopp faces the challenge of rebuilding Liverpool's midfield after a disappointing season and losing key players to Saudi Arabian clubs.

Juergen Klopp once again finds himself in a familiar position, as he attempts to lead Liverpool back to the top four of the Premier League. The 2022-23 season was a humbling one for the club, as they missed out on a top-four finish. This disappointment was compounded by the fact that Liverpool had just come off a grueling 63-game campaign in the previous season.

For the past six seasons, Klopp has guided Liverpool to the Champions League, with three final appearances and a victory in 2019. However, this season, they find themselves back in the Europa League. Despite the struggles, Klopp's job was never in jeopardy, as he is the longest-serving coach at a single club in England's top flight. The fans have shown unwavering support for Klopp, instead placing blame on the club's hierarchy for their lack of transfer activity.

Liverpool failed to strengthen their aging midfield, and injuries to their forwards hindered their title challenge. The situation was further exacerbated by the departure of two key midfielders, Jordan Henderson and Fabinho, to Saudi Arabian clubs. James Milner, Naby Keita, and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain also left the club on free transfers, leaving a significant void to fill in the midfield.

The influence of Saudi Arabia in the football world has had a major impact on Liverpool's plans. Klopp acknowledges this and understands that the club will need to adapt to the changing landscape. The transfer window started positively for Liverpool, with the signings of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai. Mac Allister's composure and ability to press effectively will be valuable additions, while Szoboszlai's goal-scoring prowess will help fill the void left by Liverpool's departing midfielders.

However, Liverpool's transfer activity has slowed down since then, and they have struggled to bring in new players to replace those who have left. Negotiations for Southampton's Romeo Lavia are ongoing, leaving Klopp with limited options in midfield. The team will heavily rely on the experience of Thiago, along with the young talents of Curtis Jones and Harvey Elliott.

In a tactical switch, Trent Alexander-Arnold has been moved from right back to midfield, providing an intriguing prospect for Liverpool. This change revitalized the team last season and played a crucial role in their fifth-place finish. Additionally, a fully fit Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz will provide a boost to Liverpool's attacking options. Darwin Nunez, who has had a full season to settle in, will be expected to alleviate the goal-scoring burden on Mohamed Salah.

Liverpool will face not only the challenge of securing a top-four finish but also a demanding Europa League campaign. Their primary goal will be to return to the Champions League, making a top-four finish or even winning the Europa League the minimum expectation for the club. Klopp will need all the support he can get, including from promising new signing Cody Gakpo, as they strive to achieve their objectives.