Bayern Munich is currently experiencing an impressive winning streak, largely influenced by the performance of Luis Díaz. In contrast, his former club, Liverpool, has faced a streak of four consecutive losses, the latest being a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Manchester United at Anfield. This defeat marked Manchester United’s first win away at Liverpool since January 17, 2016.
Frustrations Over Transfers
Former Liverpool player Steve Nicol expressed frustration regarding the signing of Florian Wirtz, who has not yet contributed effectively to Liverpool’s offense. During a discussion on ESPN, Nicol emphasized the disappointment that comes from investing heavily in a player who underperforms.
Nicol pointed out that while Liverpool fans should support Díaz, who has moved on to Bayern, the focus should be on the current roster and their performance. He noted Wirtz’s struggles within the team and questioned coach Arne Slot’s decisions, suggesting a lack of clarity in his tactics.
The Disconnect of Wirtz
- Florian Wirtz has not found success in his new system.
- Nicol highlighted Wirtz’s previous success at Bayer Leverkusen, which is not being utilized at Liverpool.
- Slot appears to be either over-rotating players or sticking with a consistent lineup without effective substitutions.
Moreover, Nicol used the performance of Bjorn Kristensen, striker for his national team, to illustrate Wirtz and Alexander Isak’s struggles. Kristensen scored five goals in two games during the international break and boasts eight goal contributions this season. His transfer cost was a mere fraction of what Liverpool paid for Wirtz and Isak combined.
Manchester United’s Resurgence
The victory against Liverpool provided Manchester United with a significant morale boost, helping them climb into the top half of the league table. Harry Maguire, who scored the winning goal, felt a sense of vindication, especially after missing a crucial opportunity in their last encounter.
This match showcased the stark contrast between the performances of Liverpool and their former players compared to Bayern Munich’s current success. The ongoing challenges faced by Liverpool may require a reevaluation of their recent transfer decisions, particularly regarding Wirtz’s effectiveness.
