Concerns grow over Liverpool’s title defence as Slot dismisses centre-back worries

DDM News

(DDM) – Liverpool’s preparations for the 2025/26 Premier League season have sparked debate after new manager Arne Slot downplayed concerns over defensive depth ahead of the club’s title defence.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the Community Shield clash against Crystal Palace on Sunday exposed both promise and vulnerability in Liverpool’s game, with the attack showing flashes of brilliance but the defence looking far from settled.

The Wembley encounter followed a worrying pre-season in which the Reds conceded four goals to AC Milan, one to Yokohama, and two to Athletic Club, even with a near full-strength lineup.

With the Premier League opener against Bournemouth just days away, attention has turned to the lack of senior centre-back options available to Slot.

Currently, Liverpool have only three recognised senior centre-backs, captain Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, and Joe Gomez.

Gomez is already sidelined with injury, heightening concerns of a potential crisis if further absences occur.

Van Dijk is understood to have urged the club to strengthen in attack, but many analysts and supporters believe the priority should be defensive reinforcement.

Speaking to former Liverpool midfielder Steve McManaman on TNT Sports before the Community Shield, Slot insisted he had “more than enough options” for the position.

The Dutchman also stated that Liverpool would act in the transfer market if the right opportunity emerged, though his comments have not eased fears among the fanbase.

History offers a sobering reminder for Liverpool supporters.

In the 2020/21 season, following the club’s Premier League triumph, injuries to Van Dijk, Gomez, and Joel Matip left Liverpool scrambling for solutions.

Midfielders Jordan Henderson and Fabinho were deployed in defence before youngsters Nat Phillips and Rhys Williams stepped in during the latter part of the campaign.

By that point, the team’s title challenge had already collapsed.

Makeshift options exist in the current squad, with Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenberch capable of filling in at centre-back.

However, critics question whether such temporary measures are adequate for a side aiming to defend its Premier League crown and compete in the UEFA Champions League.

Liverpool have been linked with Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, but reports suggest the club may delay a move until the player could become available on a free transfer next year.

Some pundits argue that postponing the signing risks repeating past mistakes if injuries mount early in the season.

The next three weeks before the transfer deadline may prove decisive for Liverpool’s campaign.

While Slot remains confident in his squad’s depth, the demands of modern football and the lessons of history could soon put that belief to the test.

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