Liverpool’s recent form in the Premier League has been less than glorious, with just one victory in their last half dozen fixtures. However, club legend Jamie Carragher believes the Reds are primed for a strong run in the Champions League, alongside one other English side. Currently sitting in sixth position in the Premier League, Liverpool need just a draw at Anfield against Qarabag on Wednesday to secure their spot in the Champions League knockout stages.
Under the guidance of manager Arne Slot, Liverpool have found a sanctuary in European competition, notching up impressive wins against Inter Milan and Real Madrid, even if they stumbled against PSV Eindhoven at home last November. The Reds have thrived in the less physical and more expansive European games, where there is a diminished focus on set-pieces and long throw-ins.
Carragher, reflecting on the contrasting styles, suggests this differentiation fortifies Liverpool’s prospects of success in Europe’s top-tier tournament. The ex-defender praises the calibre of the Premier League, noting leaders Arsenal’s ease in resting key players and still managing a convincing victory over Serie A leaders Inter Milan. However, Carragher harbours some discomfort with the perceived ease English clubs, including Liverpool, are experiencing in continental competitions.
“When Premier League teams excel in the Champions League, it’s often due to a physicality European squads struggle with. Set pieces are crucial in the Premier League right now,” he remarked to The Athletic. “However, I won’t be deceived by clubs like Tottenham, Liverpool, and Newcastle thriving in Europe despite their inconsistent domestic performances. I recently observed Arsenal comfortably dispatching Inter Milan even without Declan Rice, Gabriel, or Martin Odegaard. This dominance by English teams gives me pause. It’s not just Liverpool; I want the likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Juventus to restore the balance of power.”
Carragher further critiques Liverpool’s domestic pursuits, acknowledging their struggle to keep pace with the likes of Manchester City and Chelsea, despite being better equipped for European action. “Liverpool has an intrinsic connection with the European Cup, appearing far more suited to its style than the rugged demands of English football, which now heavily relies on set pieces, long throws, counter-attacks, and deep defensive blocks. Such scenarios are less frequent in the Champions League, where teams are more inclined to engage in open play,” Carragher added. “That’s why Liverpool conquered the likes of Marseille and Inter away and triumphed over Real Madrid at Anfield.”
Yet, the path to glory is fraught with formidable opponents, including Bayern Munich, who alongside Arsenal, are regarded as favourites. Interestingly, it’s not just Liverpool reaping the rewards of ‘proper football’; Newcastle United are also benefiting on the continental stage. Ahead of their clash with Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday, as the league phase concludes, Magpies winger Anthony Gordon articulated the distinction between English and European football. Gordon has relished the more open style in Europe, netting six goals in seven Champions League appearances compared to a mere two in 18 league outings.
Gordon explained: “Champions League encounters are more open, teams strive to play. It’s less about transitions. In the Premier League, the physicality is unprecedented. European matches remind me of the classic football style — teams are more inclined to engage in ‘proper football.’ Nowadays, Premier League games incorporate more long throw-ins and set-pieces. It’s slower, more rigid.”
Liverpool’s quest for European success continues, as they bid to harness their continental prowess and leave their domestic difficulties in the rearview mirror.