Realistic slot facing transfer
A clear indication that this match wasn’t Liverpool’s most crucial of the season became evident with 15 minutes left in regular time. Among the four substitutions Jurgen Klopp made simultaneously, it was Wataru Endo’s removal that ultimately cost the visitors a hard-fought victory.
Although Endo struggled in the first half, he played a pivotal role after halftime, helping Liverpool regain control and providing much-needed defensive cover. However, Mac Allister, while filling in capably during the first half of the season, isn’t a natural defensive midfielder. Considering Endo’s inability to play every game and Stefan Bajcetic’s early stage in his career, incoming manager Arne Slot will identify areas for immediate squad improvement.
Despite discussions about missed opportunities this season, Liverpool has scored only one goal fewer than their title-winning campaign of 2019/20 with just one game remaining. Defensively, however, they’ve managed just one clean sheet in 15 matches across all competitions.
To reclaim their status as enduring championship contenders, Liverpool must focus on fundamentals, starting with acquiring a new recognized defensive midfielder.
Two players face season-ending disappointment. While the exhausted Alexis Mac Allister will welcome the season’s conclusion, both Cody Gakpo and Harvey Elliott would likely prefer the campaign to continue.
These two, along with the sidelined Andy Robertson, have arguably been Liverpool’s standout performers over the past six weeks. They both made significant contributions in this match, with Elliott’s increased goal involvements since the New Year evident in his early cross leading to Villa’s goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez’s mistake and his precise set-piece delivery setting up Jarell Quansah’s first Premier League goal.
In the meantime, Gakpo, reaching 16 goals for the season, capitalized on a cross from Joe Gomez, who impressively deputized for Robertson at left-back once again. Their performances offer serious considerations for Arne Slot as Liverpool looks ahead to its next era.