Liverpool’s recent stint on the pitch has stirred up discussions about the team's reliance on star player Mohamed Salah. The latest conversation came after their 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United at Wembley during the English League Cup final on March 17, 2025. Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher spoke out, asserting the need for additional support around Salah and calling for improvements within the attack.
Analyzing the game, Carragher reflected on his impressions, stating, "Perhaps this was one of the worst matches I have seen from Liverpool in a final, but they squandered the majority this season and lost one match in the league." This comment encapsulates the disappointment felt by fans and pundits alike following their performance, which raised questions about the depth and future of the squad.
The crux of Carragher’s argument centers around the significant pressure placed on Salah, who has amassed 32 goals and provided 22 assists across all competitions this season. Nevertheless, he went scoreless during the final against Newcastle, marking the third consecutive match without contributing to Liverpool’s scoring tally. Carragher emphasized this troubling trend, saying, "From the attacking aspect in the transitions, this puts some light on the sides Liverpool needs to improve. I believe speeding up the attacks is clear, and I feel sorry for Mohamed Salah."
During his interview with Sky Sports, Carragher didn’t shy away from defending Salah's recent performances, noting, "Some offers were presented after my Paris Saint-Germain matches against a player who is obviously the best left-back in the world, Nuno Mendes, but he does not get help from other players." His insights suggest not only admiration for Salah's skill but also highlight the struggles he faces from game to game without reliable support from his teammates.
Reflecting on Liverpool's offensive capabilities, Carragher drew comparisons to previous years under manager Jurgen Klopp. He remarked, "This is not how things were under Jurgen Klopp, where Mane or Firmino were rescued from problems," pointing to how those attacking options had once provided much-needed relief and support for Salah, ensuring he wasn't solely responsible for the team's success.
He reiterated his stance on the current Liverpool front line, insisting, "Liverpool's attackers are good, but they are not two great players. They have relied on Salah a lot; Liverpool needs to sign players to play on the side of Mohamed Salah." Carragher's comments clearly call for strategic changes to the roster, emphasizing the urgency for Liverpool to bolster its attacking lineup to grant Salah the support he needs to flourish.
The talk surrounding Liverpool’s attacking depth brings to light several factors affecting the team’s performance overall. Carragher’s criticisms resonate with many fans who worry about the current attacking strategies and the reliance on one of their most valuable players. It raises important questions about squad depth, new signings, and the direction the club is heading as they move forward. Without necessary changes, it seems like Salah may continue to feel the weight of expectation laid upon him.
While it’s undeniable Salah has proven himself time and again with his scoring prowess, the discussion points opened by Carragher highlight the need for evolution within the squad. With the transfer window approaching, fans and experts alike will be watching closely to see if Liverpool's management heeds this advice and makes strategic acquisitions to support not only Salah but the team as a whole, aiming to restore their standing as one of the premier clubs both domestically and internationally.
