What does Liverpool’s Premier League 2018/19 season look like?
Liverpool must aim to make amends to their Champions League collapse in Kiev against Real Madrid. The Merseyside club have already come a long way since that night with Jurgen Klopp considerably strengthening the squad in key areas. The German has brought in the likes of Xherdan Shaqiri, Naby Keita, Fabinho and Alisson Becker in the off-season.
Key Signings: Alisson Becker, Fabinho, Naby Keita
Goalkeeper Becker should put an end to Klopp’s goalkeeping dilemma. The Brazilian was splendid in Liverpool’s 5-0 mauling of Serie A outfit Napoli during pre-season. There’s an aura of excitement and confidence around the club as Liverpool must aim to claim their first piece of silverware under Jurgen Klopp.
Klopp has certainly bolstered the squad in areas that showed weakness last season. As Liverpool’s all-action front trio wreaked havoc across Europe, their defensive backline were under attack. But the arrival of Naby Keita and Fabinho will ensure defensive stability. Xherdan Shaqiri showed no signs of fatigue after the World Cup, with a stunning overhead goal against Manchester United last week.
Tactics
The German’s arrival has seen the Reds regularly contend for titles. It seems to be just a matter of time before he gets his hands on it. Liverpool are known for their high-octane, high pressing football which they excel at under Klopp. The Reds showed defensive frailties last season, but with the arrival of Virgil Van Dijk in January, Liverpool have acquired a leader and commander at the back.
Liverpool enjoyed a successful pre-season tour, losing just one game against Borussia Dortmund. The Reds looked cohesive and fluid, meaning they have all the tools to ensure a positive start to the season by beating West Ham United on opening day.
On paper, the Reds have a fine run of opening fixtures which see them take on just Tottenham Hotspur in the first 6 weeks. There were plenty of positives for Klopp to take back from the pre-season. Hence, the manager should use this opportunity to fine-tune his squad and pick the perfect starting line-up for the new season.
Predicted finish: 1st
Liverpool are certainly one of the favourites to clinch the title this season and will provide healthy competition to Manchester City, who have already kicked off their season by winning the Community Shield against Chelsea. Considering their strong team, however, Liverpool could land a Premier League title this season.