The season has started with a strong feeling of Diogo Jota not being in the team. You can feel it in the way we play. We as fans feel it. Everybody in the stadium feels it. And of course, what Chiesa did yesterday is undoubtedly what every fan in their head thought Jota would do, slot it in when it matters.
The tribute from the fans, the team, and that moment when Salah froze in front of the Kop said it all. A reminder that while football is about systems and signings, it is also about people who leave a mark. What the club has provided to the family, tell a lot about its warm fabric it is built upon.
About 25-26
Now it almost feels like Slot’s Liverpool now. Klopp’s fingerprints are still there with the transitions, the intensity, but the pressing, or the lack of it, says that Slot has stamped his style too. The 4-2-3-1 shape is clear, the double pivot giving structure. Position control was missing at times yesterday, but we know that its the start of the season, and fitness level and the cohesiveness is going to get better,
Florian Wirtz adds depth and creativity in midfield, but as expected he does not bring defensive cover. That means the balance of the double pivot will matter even more. The transfer window as a whole makes sense. Frimpong, Kerkez, before the game I thought they were ready to bomb forward and immediately shine, but it is obvious there is work ahead for them to settle.
Ekitiké, feels like a winner already – a big ticket signing, easing right from the first game is quite good to see. Mamardashvili and the addition of Leoni in defence are smart long-term moves (Richard Huges is a genius).
Looking ahead the big threats are clear with Arsenal, City and Chelsea. But the real challenge might be in the mid-table. Teams outside the top five will take points off the contenders, and that is where consistency will define the season. I would not be shocked to see a surprise name push into the mix this time. An exciting season ahead.
A final goodbye to #20. So long!
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