MANCHESTER, ENGLAND — Jamie Carragher has strongly criticised Federico Chiesa following Liverpool’s dramatic 3-2 defeat to Manchester United, pointing to a costly late error that summed up the team’s struggles.
The former Liverpool defender expressed frustration during live commentary after Chiesa made a poor throw-in during stoppage time, at a moment when Liverpool were pushing for a late equaliser at Old Trafford.
Carragher described the decision as “unbelievable,” highlighting it as a key lapse in concentration during a critical phase of the match when composure was required.
The error quickly drew comparisons to a notorious moment involving Iago Aspas in 2014, when a poorly executed corner kick cost Liverpool a crucial opportunity in a high-stakes game.
Liverpool had endured a difficult start to the match, falling two goals behind early through strikes from Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Šeško, leaving them with a significant deficit to overturn.
However, the visitors responded strongly in the second half, with Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo scoring to restore parity and revive hopes of securing at least a point.
The comeback ultimately proved insufficient, as Kobbie Mainoo scored a late winner to seal victory for Manchester United and deepen Liverpool’s disappointing run of results.
Beyond the individual error, Carragher also addressed broader concerns about Liverpool’s tactical direction under manager Arne Slot.
He suggested that the team’s current style represents a clear shift away from the high-intensity pressing system associated with former manager Jürgen Klopp.
Carragher argued that supporters may need to adjust expectations, as Slot appears committed to a more possession-based and technical approach influenced by Dutch football philosophy.
He noted that recent recruitment decisions have also reflected this change in direction, with players suited to a slower, more controlled style of play rather than the aggressive pressing game of previous seasons.
While acknowledging that such an approach can be successful, Carragher questioned whether the current squad is fully equipped to execute the system effectively.
Liverpool’s ongoing inconsistency has raised concerns about identity and long-term direction, particularly as results continue to fluctuate despite moments of quality in attack.
The defeat to Manchester United further exposed these issues, with individual mistakes and tactical adjustments combining to undermine the team’s efforts.
As the season progresses, scrutiny is expected to intensify on both player performances and managerial decisions, with Liverpool facing growing pressure to stabilise results and define a clear path forward.
