Maybe I am in the minority, and am over analyzing things, but does anyone else think that Salah, Van Dijk and Trent’s contract situation is by design? Down to Liverpool’s new hierarchy wanting a significant reset, a chance to imprint their own strategy by removing our current best players and bringing in the new guard to push us forward into the future?
The fact that Salah (And, Van Dijk to a lesser extent) have verbally spoken about wanting to stay, but received no offers as of yet, makes me think that Hughes and Edwards will let their contracts run and instead look to the future. Both are approaching mid 30’s (Van Dijk will be 34 next season, Salah will be 33). Edwards was always known as someone who did not like giving significant wages to older players, as it did not fit his criteria, to bring in young players and allow the coaching staff to develop the talent into mainstays at the club.
I don’t agree with this strategy, personally. I would much rather we retain our best players and go for as much as we can every single year. But, maybe the new hierarchy are looking years into the future, to build us into their ideal vision, and compete for every major trophy again in 2 to 3 years.
With the Trent situation, I think he has told Liverpool that he will be leaving at the end of his contract, and there is nothing that can be done to change that. I suspect that situation was forced on them, and they are already looking at strengthening the right back position. Unfortunately, Bradley had his chance this season, and has proven unreliable. The number of injuries he gets will only result in him being option B.
Many have stated we will only sign 3 players next season, but I honestly suspect it will be a big overhaul, especially when considering the contract situation. Slot has had a year to assess both the first team and youth ranks, knowing the strengths and weaknesses of both. When it comes to the positions we need to strengthen, for me; right back, centre back, left back, centre mid, right wing and ST are vital. Do I expect it all to be done at the next transfer window? No, but steps will be taken to cover these positions in the next two years, of that I am sure.
Many will disagree with me, say that the 3 contracts are being actively pursued by the club, but I honestly don’t think they are. I think a decision has been made to release them, and build the team in the hierarchy and Slot’s vision. A scary set of circumstances, carrying a great deal of risk, but I do believe we have been overly reliant on Salah to create, and we need an overhaul of this, to be dangerous in numerous positions instead of one. To have every member of the team work for each other, much like PSG this season. Rather than allow Salah to rest and ignore defensive duties, and instead, having Grav and Konate cover for Trent when the opposition target him.
Just my two thoughts, fully prepared to get an absolute bollocking.
Written by LFC-S MANGO March 12 2025 15:56:22
