3 players key for Liverpool’s ambitions this season

Liverpool’s goals for the season are probably ones that they aren’t sure of themselves. This is by all accounts a transitional season for them, with Arne Slot taking over from the legendary Jurgen Klopp. Liverpool would like to think they can challenge for the title, but contention in the title race and a Champions League spot will not raise too many complaints come the end of season.

#3 Virgil Van Dijk

Virgil Van Dijk has for years now been regarded by everyone as the best defender in the Premier League. You could easily make the case that he was the most important player in everything that Liverpool achieved under Jurgen Klopp. Now 33, Van Dijk hasn’t slowed down at all, literally or metaphorically.

His performances are still among the best in the league in his position. Under new manager Arne Slot he’ll have to be one of the people leading the team, so that the transition is smooth. This time, he also has the role of grooming a youngster like Jarell Quansah to eventually take over from him.

#2 Trent Alexander Arnold

By his own lofty standards, last season wasn’t the best one for Trent Alexander Arnold as injuries and form issues bothered him. But if pre season is anything to go by, then he is back at his best. He was absolutely brilliant in Liverpool’s first game of the campaign against Ipswich Town as the Reds won 2-1.

The Englishman’s passing is world class and that has made him one of the best creative players in the world, even from right back. He has 58 assists in the PL, more than any defender ever. His defensive frailties are used as a stick to beat him and while they do exist, they are often overstated to discredit him.

#1 Mo Salah

Against Ipswich, Mo Salah began the new season with a bang, scoring and assisting in the 2-0 win. This was his 9th opening day goal, a Premier League record. Like Van Dijk, Salah is also among the seniors in this Liverpool side who will hope to help new manager Slot settle in with the squad.

While he is still quite fast, Salah has traded relying on that to becoming a creative monster. His assist against Ipswich for Diogo Jota is a demonstration of just that. With Erling Haaland having taken the Golden Boot twice in a row, Salah would want to have his say on that this time.