KUALA LUMPUR – Former Liverpool defender John Arne Riise believes that the pressure is too much for his old club to stay top of the Premier League, citing injuries to several key players and also Manchester City’s return to form.
“I don’t think we’re going to do it, though I hope we can, because we are playing good football.” Riise said, acknowledging Liverpool’s impressive on-field performances.
However, he emphasised the significance of keeping all players injury free, highlighting the recent setback with Mohamed Salah’s injury in a 2-2 draw with Ghana last week at the Africa Cup of Nations.
“It is important to keep our players injury free, but now Salah is injured,” Riise noted.
Despite Liverpool looking “very good” in their gameplay, Riise ultimately pointed to the formidable competition posed by Manchester City.
He anticipates that City’s strength, coupled with the return of key player Kevin De Bruyne, could tip the balance in their favour.
“We are looking very good, but in the end, I think Man City will be too strong, now that they are going to get De Bruyne soon,” Riise stated, hinting at the potential game changer that De Bruyne’s return could represent for the Manchester club.
Riise’s insights into Liverpool’s title chances provides fans with a realistic perspective on the challenges ahead.
As the season unfolds, the football community will be keenly watching to see how Liverpool navigate these hurdles and whether they can defy the odds in pursuit of securing the coveted title.
Despite Salah’s absence, Liverpool managed to win 4-0 against Bournemouth last Monday with a brace each from Darwin Núñez and Diago Jota, showing that Liverpool are still a formidable team without their top scorer.
However, Liverpool will have to prove themselves once again when facing Fulham in the second leg of their EFL Cup semi-final tomorrow, having won the first leg 2-1. – January 24, 2024