Liverpool Football Club has faced a challenging recent period, with multiple setbacks in cup competitions leading to a critical focus on their Premier League ambitions. After exiting the FA Cup in the fourth round against Plymouth Argyle last month, the team suffered a heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League. Additionally, they experienced disappointment in the Carabao Cup final with a loss to Newcastle United. Now, with the Premier League title as their only remaining goal, the focus shifts solely to securing victory in this last competition.
Currently leading the Premier League by a remarkable 12 points, Liverpool appears to be in a comfortable position against second-placed Arsenal. However, their recent form has raised concerns among fans and analysts alike as they navigate the final matches of the season. Moreover, the club's management faces pressing issues behind the scenes regarding the contract situations of three key players: Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold. With only two months remaining on their contracts, there has been minimal progress reported in negotiations.
In an update from The Athletic’s David Ornstein, it appears that there have been no significant developments regarding Salah’s contract renewal. Although specific details remain sparse, Ornstein noted that the absence of news does not necessarily imply a deadlock in negotiations. Liverpool remains optimistic that they can reach an agreement with Salah as both parties reportedly desire to continue their successful partnership.
A proposed two-year contract extension remains on the table, but the terms need to be finalized to ensure both sides are satisfied. Despite ongoing speculation connecting Salah to lucrative moves to the Saudi Pro League and Paris Saint-Germain, sources close to the situation have categorically dismissed these claims. Ornstein further clarified: “Not that I’m personally aware of. Which doesn’t mean there aren’t any; it may just be that it hasn’t come to the media/public attention yet.”
His analysis gave fans hope that discussions were still in motion, stating, “I just know Liverpool has been optimistic for some time that they will reach an agreement because, ultimately, they want Salah to stay and there is a belief that he is happy and would like the same.” The outlook surrounding the contract negotiations is being closely monitored, especially regarding pivotal defeats in cup competitions, with Ornstein suggesting that these setbacks would not impact the outcome of the negotiations: “I also don’t sense the Champions League and EFL Cup final defeats will have any bearing on the outcome or timings.”
Amidst this uncertainty, Salah continues to shine on the pitch. Throughout the Premier League season, he has started all 29 matches, scoring an impressive 27 goals and providing 17 assists, establishing an average of 0.93 goals per game. Across all competitions, his contributions amount to 32 goals with 22 assists in 43 appearances, setting new records for goal involvement in a single Premier League season. Liverpool fans are eager to see an official announcement regarding his contract extension, hoping it materializes in the near future.
The situation took a further twist with news of another injury worry plaguing the team. Key midfielder Ryan Gravenberch had to withdraw from the Netherlands national team as they prepare for two Nations League fixtures against Spain. Liverpool confirmed Gravenberch's departure from the squad in an official statement, citing a fitness issue that arose after his prior participation in a match against Newcastle. The statement read: “Ryan Gravenberch has departed the Netherlands camp and will not be involved in their fixtures this week.”
Gravenberch’s fitness will be assessed upon his return to Merseyside as Liverpool gears up for a Premier League clash against Everton on April 2. This upcoming derby is crucial in maintaining their title charge. Following that match, they will face Fulham on April 6, with the club needing to secure 16 points from their last nine games to officially claim the championship title.
This situation adds to the urgency for Liverpool, given that Arsenal is still competing in the Champions League, which could shift their focus in the Premier League later in the season. With the club now out of cup competitions, Liverpool will have more opportunities for recovery between matches. Gravenberch’s absence could be felt significantly amongst fans, especially given his standout performances this season, where he has made 41 appearances in all competitions and has become a pivotal player under manager Arne Slot.
If Gravenberch’s fitness issue is prolonged, Wataru Endo is the manager's likely candidate to step in. Although Endo has had limited minutes this season, he has consistently shown his capabilities whenever called upon. Liverpool did not concede a goal during his time on the pitch in recent fixtures against Wolves, Manchester City, and others, showcasing his defensive attributes effectively.
As the pressure builds leading up to their final matches this season, Liverpool will seek to ensure their star players remain fit and engaged. The club's ambitions hinge on a Premier League title victory, solidified by their need to secure particular points and manage their player contracts efficiently. Will the Reds maintain their form as they seek to end the season on a high note? The coming weeks will undoubtedly reveal the answers.
