When Jurgen Klopp joined the Reds last October, the fans hoped for a Champions League spot by the end of the season. Yet they failed to finish in the top 7; and thus no European football for them this year. Now with the lesser number of matches they might just have the advantage to play with more efficiency and less errors. Four more weeks before the transfer window ends and only 11 days till their first league match against Arsenal on Aug 14th; the boss has already hinted giving the squad a more balanced look.
Even after seven additions in this transfer window Klopp has not ruled out the possibility of further transfer activity. In a recent interview he stated:
“Is the activity all over? I have no idea,” he added. “I don’t think so. We will see what happens.
Two out of their seven new signings were Sadio Mane and Georginio Wijnaldum from Southampton and Newcastle United respectively. It clearly indicates that they are determined to attack and score more often; previously the fans voiced their disappointment with the teams’ ‘sloppy attack’ and poor finishes since Luis Suarez and Raheem Sterling’s departure. Now with Mane in the squad and the likes of Adam Lallana, Philippe Coutinho, Roberto Firmino and Daniel Sturridge, the Kops can be dazzling on several occasion throughout the campaign. Although the friendly against Chelsea proved that if somehow they take a day off together then Liverpool’s high level performance drops alarmingly.
The Reds have returned from their pre-season tour in the United States and now all of their attention is on Saturday’s friendly against Barcelona at Wembley. The US tour seems like have helped Klopp to has manage and motivate his players to get them playing on a high note, but there are many problems back in the defense which needs to be sorted out quickly. In the centre-back position, Liverpool have four players to select but they need one dependable duo. Both Sakho and the new signing Juan Matip has failed to the impress the manager and the fan. Now that Barcelona are the next opponent; we can perhaps see the Reds settling down with their first-choice team. Regardless to say about the quality of the Blaugranas, the fans would be a bit more optimistic to see the full strength team do something good.
In an interview with the club’s official website, Klopp has stated that he is still not sure about the final formation he’s going to deploy. But, like last season perhaps he will keep faith in the 4-3-3 formation. Unlike Brendan Rodgers, Klopp won’t experiment with different formations several times in 90 minutes. The main focus will be on the front three and they must press, create and score even in a slightest opportunity. The probable starting XI in their first league might be something like this:
Loris Karius – (GK)
Arriving from the German club Mainz this season, he will most likely be Klopp’s first choice keeper. Simon Mignolet’s poor form might push him back in the dugout as the boss might rely on someone with less errors.
Alberto Moreno – (LB)
Apart from the transfer rumors surrounding this left back, Moreno will likely play in his favorite position in the first game. Klopp has to trust him in stopping the frequent and quick wing-play of Alexis Sanchez.
Dejan Lovren – (CB)
The Croatian had developed into quite a good player last summer but he struggled in the match against Roma this week . The key to the success for Liverpool depends on the back four and Lovren must rise to the occasion and lead from the front.
Mamadou Sakho – (CB)
The Frenchman will have to form a solid duo with Lovren as soon as possible. With much controversy surrounding the defender; however the manager believes that he still has a future at the club despite his all indiscretions
Nathaniel Clyne – (RB)
There were some once rumors surrounding this English full back that he was unhappy to play under the German, however he made 52 appearances in all competitions last year and is a vital player this year.
Jordan Henderson – (CM)
The captain is now on the verge of a defining moment. A poor performer last year, he could be left behind or he could establish himself as a greater influence in the midfield. The fans will definitely want to see the player he was between 2012 and 2014.
Georginio Wijnaldum – (LMF)
The Dutch can easily fit under Klopp’s style of play due to his attributes. He has proven earlier that he feels easy, playing in different positions across the midfield. Now it is still unclear that where will Wijnaldum play. Given that Klopp is going with the 4-3-3 this year we might see him in a new position
James Milner – (RMF)
The gaffer has indicated that he is considering Milner as right-winger from the first day of the season. In answer to that, the vice-captain has stated that he will do what is necessary for the team.
Philippe Coutinho – (LWF)
The only player in the squad who has been consistent last year. In 2015/16, he scored twelve goals and provided seven assists in averaging a goal contribution every 169 minutes. He’s a player who has made himself the most crucial one in the squad and the fans can hope he enjoys doing so.
Sadio Mane – (RWF)
Many raised their eyebrows when Liverpool signed this attacking spearhead with £30m; the question was will he be another flop signing like Andy Carroll and Cristian Benteke? Mane now has to get rid of that allegation and kick start his Liverpool career in quick time. Suitable at any position in the attacking flank he must become one of the pillars in Liverpool’s attack.
Daniel Sturridge – (CF)
The 26 year old Englishman, is as well furnished goalscorer in any day. However due his injury prone nature he was left out when the team needed him the most. Leaving him out against Arsenal will be a tough decision, but Klopp never fails to surprise us with his decisions.
Liverpool must need to work hard on their defense before the Arsenal game. Though the men up front should also create and score more, under any circumstances. If Klopp has to make something special out of this team as he did with his former club, he must certainly motivate and bring positive energy in the dressing room. If each of the players can justify their skills and talent, Liverpool are a team to watch out for next season.
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