Jurgen Klopp did not hesitate to analyze Liverpool’s pre-season loss to Bayern Munich.
Jurgen Klopp called up his four Liverpool stars after their pre-season defeat to Bayern Munich on Tuesday. The Reds are in the midst of a major rebuild and launch issues are expected, but the display highlights that a substantial additional investment is required to complete the reshuffle.
The Liverpool midfielder was at the heart of their problems last season and they have been trying to solve those problems this summer. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Naby Keita and James Milner were all released as free agents, while Fabinho and Jordan Henderson and Fabinho were also sold to Saudi clubs.
Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai have been purchased as replacements, with at least one other midfielder expected to arrive before the start of the next campaign. However, despite his transition to his new system, Klopp has demanded high standards from his squad during pre-season – publicly pointing out those who made mistakes.
Speaking after his team’s loss to Bayern, he said:
“At the first goal we conceded, Trent (Alexander-Arnold) and Joel (Matip) had to react better. Both stand on both feet. I don’t think we can avoid the pass.
“It’s only been half an hour since the game started and we were already feeling the tension. It was the same moment in the second half with Joe Gomez and Ibou Konaté. It’s not a matter of speed, it’s a matter of conscience, let’s go. check the situation, in football there is no break.
With Liverpool looking for a left-back, Klopp’s pointing out errors from his backline come as no surprise. The Red Devils have named Chelsea stars Levi Colwill and Wolfsburg’s Micky van de Ven as targets in that division, although neither is strongly pursued at this stage – with Tottenham in extreme positions important to land later
Klopp has made no secret that he wants new signings, especially when it has been suggested that he lacks in midfield. He explained:
“Curtis (Jones) is definitely one of the picks, it’s no secret that we’re looking for new players to join us.”
Liverpool have identified Romeo Lavia as their main target in that division and are in talks with Southampton over the Belgium international, amid interest from Arsenal and Chelsea. The Reds are expected to submit a third offer for the former Manchester City star soon, close to The Saints’ £50m price tag, with the player keen to move to Anfield as soon as possible.
