The Kopite View

I’m really looking forward to seeing how Liverpool’s defence handles Manchester City on Sunday.

For the first time in a while, I’m going into a big game feeling reasonably confident about our back line.

That doesn’t mean I think we’re suddenly unbeatable. Far from it.

But there has been a noticeable improvement in Liverpool’s defensive performances under Andoni Iraola, and Sunday’s game against Manchester City will tell us an awful lot about just how far we’ve come.

Because keeping Bournemouth, Fulham and Ipswich at bay is one thing.

Facing Erling Haaland and a Manchester City side that won their opening five league matches is something else entirely. City arrived at the weekend top of the table, while Liverpool were sixth on nine points.

This is the test I’ve been waiting for.

Liverpool finally look more comfortable defensively

Cast your mind back to the opening weeks of the season.

There were genuine concerns about Liverpool’s defence, particularly after the problems at right-back. Jeremie Frimpong struggled in the position, opponents found opportunities to attack that side, and the whole back line looked less settled than it should have.

Then Iraola made changes.

Ronald Araújo moved into the right-back position, Jérémy Jacquet continued developing alongside Virgil van Dijk, and Milos Kerkez remained on the left.

The difference has been encouraging.

Liverpool kept three consecutive Premier League clean sheets before the international break, including that hard-fought 1-0 victory over Bournemouth. It was the first time the Reds had achieved that run in the league since the beginning of their 2024/25 title-winning campaign.

I particularly like what Araújo has brought to the defence.

He might not offer the same attacking threat as a natural wing-back, but he gives Liverpool strength, physicality and defensive reliability. Jacquet has also grown into the role, while Van Dijk’s experience remains invaluable.

And Alisson is still Alisson.

That is a good foundation.

But City will ask very different questions of them.

Haaland is the obvious danger

Let’s be honest: if you give Erling Haaland opportunities inside the penalty area, he is more than capable of punishing you.

He doesn’t need five or six chances to score. One good delivery, one defensive mistake or one moment when a centre-back loses concentration can be enough.

That is why I want to see Liverpool defend as a unit rather than relying on individual heroics.

Van Dijk and Jacquet will have to communicate constantly. Araújo and Kerkez must be careful about leaving space behind them, particularly when Liverpool push forward.

And the midfield has a massive responsibility too.

If City can play through the middle without pressure, Liverpool’s defenders will spend the afternoon running towards their own goal. That is when even a well-organised back line can begin to look vulnerable.

Liverpool cannot afford to let City dictate the game in front of the defence.

The pressing has to be coordinated, the distances between the midfield and back four must remain sensible, and somebody needs to close down the player supplying Haaland.

Otherwise, we could be in for a very uncomfortable afternoon.

Araújo and Jacquet could be crucial

Two players I will be watching particularly closely are Araújo and Jacquet.

Araújo’s arrival at right-back has helped Liverpool look more secure, but City will test his positioning and decision-making. He cannot simply concentrate on winning his individual battles; he must also know when to hold his position and when to support the attack.

Jacquet faces an equally important challenge.

The young Frenchman has impressed me with his composure and willingness to compete, but this is the sort of match that provides a genuine measure of a defender’s development.

He will face movement, quick combinations and runners trying to pull him away from Van Dijk.

I don’t expect him to get everything right. That would be unfair.

What I want to see is how he responds when City put him under pressure.

Does he remain calm? Does he make the right decisions? Can he recover quickly after a difficult moment?

Those are the things that will tell us more than simply counting his tackles.

This is where Iraola’s progress will be measured

Iraola deserves credit for the improvement we’ve seen, but I don’t think we should get carried away just yet.

The clean sheets are encouraging. The defence looks more settled, and the players appear to understand their responsibilities better.

However, the real measure of progress comes when you face opponents who can exploit the smallest weakness.

City are exactly that kind of team.

They can attack through the middle, stretch you out wide and punish you when you lose possession. Liverpool will need concentration for the full 90 minutes, not just a good opening half.

And there is another consideration: Liverpool will be without Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo through injury, as Iraola confirmed before the match. That makes defensive discipline even more important because Liverpool cannot assume they will simply outscore City.

If Liverpool are going to get a result, the team must be organised from front to back.

I’m optimistic, but Sunday will tell us more

I don’t want to turn this into a prediction that Liverpool will keep another clean sheet. City are too dangerous for that, and football rarely works so neatly.

But I do believe Liverpool have reasons to be more confident than they were a few weeks ago.

Araújo has helped stabilise right-back. Jacquet is gaining experience. Van Dijk remains the leader, and Alisson gives the team confidence behind them.

The improvement is real, even if we still need to see how it holds up against the very best.

Manchester City are the perfect examination.

If Liverpool can restrict their chances, stay compact and avoid the cheap mistakes that have cost them in the past, it would be a significant statement for Iraola.

And if the defence struggles, that doesn’t mean the progress has been meaningless. It would simply show us where the next stage of improvement is needed.

But I’m hopeful.

I’ve liked what I’ve seen from Liverpool defensively in recent weeks, and now I want to see that same organisation against a side capable of punishing almost every mistake.

The clean sheets have given us reasons to believe. Now Liverpool need to prove they can do it against Manchester City.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

I’ll be honest, I wouldn’t dismiss this idea at all.

It’s time for Trey Nyoni to make his first Premier League start ahead of Ryan Gravenberch.

That is the call Liverpool Echo journalist Ian Doyle has made ahead of this afternoon’s huge game against Manchester City, and while I can understand why some supporters might be nervous about throwing a teenager into a match of this magnitude, I can also see the argument.

Liverpool need energy. They need intensity. And they need midfielders who are prepared to get on the ball and make things happen.

Could Nyoni give Andoni Iraola something different?

I think it’s a question worth asking.

Why not give Nyoni his chance?

Nyoni has been knocking on the door for a while now.

He has already made his senior debut for Liverpool, became the club’s youngest-ever player in European competition and made his Premier League debut as a substitute last season. He’s also shown that he isn’t frightened of the occasion when given opportunities with the first team.

His performance in the Carabao Cup win over Tottenham was another reminder that there is a very promising midfielder in there.

I’m not suggesting one good cup performance means he should automatically start every big game. That would be unfair on the lad.

But sometimes you have to look at what a player can bring to the team rather than simply how old he is.

Nyoni looks comfortable receiving the ball, wants to get involved and has the confidence to play forward. Those are qualities Liverpool could certainly use against Manchester City.

Is Gravenberch doing enough to keep his place?

This is where the debate becomes interesting.

Ryan Gravenberch is a talented midfielder, and I’m certainly not writing him off. We know what he can do when he’s confident and playing well.

But I’ve been wondering for a while whether Liverpool are getting the best out of him.

There have been occasions when the midfield has looked short of energy and struggled to control games. Against a side like Manchester City, that can become a serious problem.

City are excellent at finding space between the lines, moving the ball quickly and forcing opponents to chase. If Liverpool allow them to dictate the tempo, it could be a long afternoon.

So if Iraola believes Nyoni can offer more intensity and sharper movement, I wouldn’t be against giving him the opportunity.

Reputation shouldn’t guarantee anybody a starting place.

Gravenberch has plenty of ability, but every Liverpool midfielder should have to earn his place through performances.

Manchester City is a huge test

Of course, there is a reason why this decision wouldn’t be straightforward.

Starting against City at Anfield is very different from coming off the bench or playing in a cup tie.

Nyoni would be facing experienced players who are capable of punishing even the smallest mistake. Iraola would need to be confident that the teenager understands his defensive responsibilities and can cope with the physical demands of the game.

There is also a balance to consider. Liverpool cannot simply throw young players into the team because supporters want to see something different.

But nor should they hold them back indefinitely.

If Nyoni is good enough in training and Iraola believes he is ready, age shouldn’t automatically count against him.

And imagine what a start against City could do for his confidence if he handled it well.

I wouldn’t expect him to be the answer to everything

This is important because I don’t want Liverpool supporters putting unnecessary pressure on Nyoni.

He is still developing. He will make mistakes, and there will be games when he struggles. That’s part of becoming a first-team player.

But I would rather see Liverpool give a promising youngster a genuine opportunity when his performances justify it than wait until there is no alternative.

Nyoni doesn’t need to be a superstar this afternoon.

He needs to do the simple things well, show for the ball, work hard without possession and play with the confidence that has brought him this far.

If he can do that, he could give Liverpool a useful option in midfield.

And even if Iraola decides the bench is the right place for him today, I hope Nyoni continues to get meaningful minutes this season.

So, would I start him?

I can see the argument for it.

I wouldn’t make the decision purely to drop Gravenberch, and I wouldn’t pick Nyoni simply because he’s the exciting young option.

But if his training performances have been strong and Iraola believes he can handle the occasion, why not?

Liverpool need their midfield to compete with City, not spend the afternoon chasing shadows.

Nyoni has earned the right to be part of the conversation. Now it’s up to the manager to decide whether this is the right moment.

For me, the most important thing is that Liverpool pick the midfield they believe gives them the best chance of winning — regardless of age or reputation.

Would you start Trey Nyoni ahead of Ryan Gravenberch against Manchester City, Reds?

I’d love to see him get a proper opportunity. And if Iraola thinks he’s ready for this one, I wouldn’t be afraid to back the teenager.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

Oh, Hendo. Really?

I could probably forgive Jordan Henderson for scoring a stunning free-kick for Chelsea. It was a cracking strike, and even the most stubborn Liverpool supporter would have to admit it.

But then he went and celebrated by heading straight for the Chelsea badge.

Look away now, Liverpool fans.

Henderson enjoyed a remarkable afternoon at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea thrashed Bournemouth 5-1, scoring twice and setting up another goal. His second was a superb free-kick that flew into the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper with little chance.

And just when Liverpool supporters were getting over the sight of their former captain rolling back the years, he had to make that gesture.

I can imagine a few Reds watching at home thinking: Jordan, mate, was all that really necessary?

What a free-kick, though

Let’s give credit where it’s due.

Henderson’s free-kick was absolutely brilliant. He curled the ball into the top corner to complete his brace and put the finishing touch on Chelsea’s emphatic win.

At 36, he showed that there is still plenty of quality left in his game. His first goal came inside the opening minutes, he provided an assist for Morgan Rogers, and he finished the afternoon with two goals and an excellent all-round midfield performance.

It was quite a performance for a player who spent so many years wearing Liverpool red.

Henderson was never the most glamorous footballer, but Liverpool supporters knew what he brought to the team. He worked relentlessly, organised the midfield and captained the club through some unforgettable moments.

So seeing him produce a free-kick like that is impressive.

Seeing him do it for Chelsea? That’s another matter entirely.

And then came the badge celebration

This is where it gets awkward for Liverpool fans.

Henderson scored, turned towards the Chelsea supporters and went straight to the badge.

Now, he’s a Chelsea player. He’s entitled to celebrate for his current club, and nobody can reasonably expect him to pretend otherwise.

But there’s still something strange about seeing a former Liverpool captain doing it.

Henderson lifted the Premier League and Champions League with Liverpool. He captained the side through the end of the Jürgen Klopp era and was part of a team that gave supporters some of their happiest memories.

He wasn’t just another player who passed through Anfield.

He was the captain.

That’s why the sight of him celebrating in blue will feel different to Liverpool fans than watching an ordinary former player score against his old club.

Football moves on, but supporters don’t always move on quite as quickly.

Liverpool fans will remember what he gave the club

I don’t think one Chelsea celebration should erase Henderson’s Liverpool legacy.

Not for a second.

He made 492 appearances for Liverpool and captained the club during one of the most successful periods in its modern history. He helped Liverpool win the Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League in 2020, among other trophies.

There were difficult moments, and his departure wasn’t without controversy, but his contribution to Liverpool should never be forgotten.

And if he’s still capable of producing performances like this, fair play to him.

I just wish he’d saved that free-kick for another day.

Or, preferably, another club.

Hendo still has something to offer

Chelsea’s 5-1 victory was a reminder that Henderson can still influence matches at the highest level.

His experience, energy and leadership remain valuable, and this was the sort of performance that will delight Chelsea supporters.

For Liverpool fans, it’s a slightly uncomfortable reminder of what he used to bring to their midfield.

But that’s football.

Players leave. They join rivals. They score goals we would rather they didn’t score. And occasionally, they celebrate in a way that makes us roll our eyes.

I’m not going to begrudge Henderson enjoying a brilliant afternoon. He has earned the right to celebrate for his current club.

But I reserve the right to have a little moan about it.

A stunning free-kick, a brace, an assist — and straight to the Chelsea badge.

Thanks for the memories, Hendo.

But honestly, mate…

You couldn’t have just celebrated the goal?

Jamie (The Kopite View)

I’ve been having a look at how Liverpool could line up against Manchester City tomorrow, and I think Andoni Iraola has a few interesting decisions to make.

The biggest problem is obvious. Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo are both unavailable after picking up injuries on international duty, while Hugo Ekitike is also out. That leaves Iraola having to get creative with his attacking options.

But rather than simply worrying about who Liverpool are missing, I’m looking at the players who could come in and make a difference.

Here’s the XI I’d go with.

My predicted Liverpool XI

Goalkeeper: Alisson

Defence: Ronald Araújo, Jérémy Jacquet, Virgil van Dijk, Milos Kerkez

Midfield: Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai

Attack: Victor Muñoz, Florian Wirtz, Rio Ngumoha

Striker: Bradley Barcola

I wouldn’t change the defence

For me, the back four pretty much picks itself.

Alisson starts in goal, with Araújo at right-back, Jacquet alongside Van Dijk and Kerkez on the left.

Jacquet’s fitness was a concern after he felt a strain in his left hamstring while away with France, but Liverpool have indicated that he should be available for the City game. That is a massive boost because I really like what he has brought to this defence.

Araújo has also given Liverpool greater defensive security at right-back, while van Dijk brings the experience and leadership this sort of fixture demands.

I’d stick with them and give the back line another chance to show how solid it can be.

Against a City side that has started the season so strongly, Liverpool cannot afford to be careless defensively.

Mac Allister and Szoboszlai need to get this right

I’d keep Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai together in midfield.

I know there are questions about the balance of that partnership, and I still think Liverpool need to find the right combination for certain games. But against City, both players will have important jobs.

Mac Allister needs to help Liverpool retain possession and get through City’s press, while Szoboszlai has the energy to press aggressively and carry the ball forward.

The key is making sure they don’t get dragged too far apart.

City are very good at finding space between the lines, and Liverpool cannot allow their midfield to become stretched. If Mac Allister and Szoboszlai can compete physically while getting the ball forward quickly, Liverpool have a chance of making this difficult for them.

Give Wirtz the freedom to create

This is where I’m particularly interested.

I’d play Florian Wirtz behind the striker, with Muñoz on one side and Ngumoha on the other.

Wirtz needs to be involved in the dangerous areas rather than spending too much time doing work that takes him away from goal.

He has already shown for Germany what he can produce when he finds his rhythm. Liverpool need to help him bring more of that into his performances at Anfield.

Muñoz offers another attacking option, while Ngumoha could give Liverpool something different with his direct running and willingness to take defenders on.

I wouldn’t expect a young player like Rio to solve all Liverpool’s problems. But sometimes you need to give talented youngsters the opportunity to show what they can do.

And against City, his pace and fearlessness could be useful.

Barcola up front is the big call

With Isak and Gakpo ruled out, this is the decision that interests me most.

I’d start Bradley Barcola as the centre-forward, even though he is more comfortable operating from wide positions.

Iraola has already spoken about Barcola’s versatility, explaining that he can play across all three attacking positions. The Liverpool manager also made the point that a forward can still play well without scoring, provided he keeps getting into the right positions.

That is important here.

Barcola has pace, movement and the ability to run behind a defence. Against City, Liverpool need somebody who can stretch the centre-backs and give Wirtz an option when he receives the ball between the lines.

It won’t be a straightforward job, especially against City’s defenders, but I would rather use Barcola’s pace centrally than lose that threat altogether.

Liverpool need to be brave going forward. They cannot spend the whole afternoon defending and hoping for a mistake.

This is a huge opportunity for Liverpool

Let’s be honest: losing Isak and Gakpo before a game of this magnitude is a serious blow.

But Liverpool still have attacking quality, and this is an opportunity for some of the other players to step up.

Wirtz needs a performance that gets people talking for the right reasons. Muñoz can offer width and energy. Ngumoha has the ability to cause problems if he gets the chance, and Barcola has the pace to trouble City if Liverpool can get him running at their defence.

I’m not saying this XI guarantees a result. City are an excellent side, and Liverpool will need to get plenty right to win.

But I want to see Iraola trust the players who can make something happen.

My predicted XI is Alisson; Araújo, Jacquet, van Dijk, Kerkez; Mac Allister, Szoboszlai; Muñoz, Wirtz, Ngumoha; Barcola.

I’d keep the defence together, ask the midfield to compete, give Wirtz freedom and let the young attackers play without fear.

It’s a big game at Anfield, and Liverpool need to make it count.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

I’ll be honest, I’m really enjoying watching Ronald Araújo play for Liverpool at the moment.

He might not be playing in his natural position, but I’m not sure Liverpool supporters will care too much about that while he continues defending the way he has been.

And now Andoni Iraola has explained exactly why he likes having the Uruguayan in his team.

“He has given us solidity.”

That is the part of Iraola’s assessment that really stands out for me.

Liverpool have looked far more dependable defensively in recent weeks, and Araújo has played a major role in that improvement.

The manager also made it clear that he still sees him primarily as a centre-back, despite using him at right-back.

But rather than complaining about being played out of position, Araújo has simply got on with the job.

And that attitude is something Iraola clearly appreciates.

Iraola admits Araújo is playing out of position

Speaking ahead of Liverpool’s meeting with Manchester City, Iraola explained that he still considers Araújo a centre-back.

“He’s playing out of position because I still think he’s a CB, but he’s doing a very good job, especially defensively. He has given us solidity.”

That is a pretty significant admission.

Liverpool signed Araújo on loan from Barcelona, but his performances at right-back have become increasingly important to the team.

With Jeremie Frimpong struggling to convince and Conor Bradley unavailable, Liverpool needed somebody who could provide greater defensive security.

Araújo has done exactly that.

He might not offer the same attacking threat as a natural full-back, but that is not necessarily what Liverpool need most right now.

Sometimes you have to make sure you can defend before worrying about how spectacularly you can attack.

That has been one of the biggest lessons from Liverpool’s recent performances.

The team is still developing under Iraola, but the defensive improvement has been encouraging.

Three clean sheets tell their own story

Liverpool’s defensive record has improved considerably since Iraola settled on his back four of Araújo, Jérémy Jacquet, Virgil van Dijk and Milos Kerkez.

The Reds recorded three consecutive Premier League clean sheets, including the hard-fought 1-0 victory over Bournemouth.

Iraola has previously explained that the more time his defenders spend playing together, the stronger their understanding becomes.

Araújo has been a major part of that process.

He looks comfortable defending one-on-one, competes physically and gives the centre-backs around him another reliable presence.

And that matters when Liverpool are trying to see out difficult games.

We all know what Araújo can offer physically. He is strong, aggressive and capable of dealing with powerful forwards.

But what I particularly like is that he seems to understand the responsibility of his role.

He doesn’t need to be the star of every game.

He just needs to do his job.

And right now, he is doing it very well.

Iraola loves his attitude

There was another part of the manager’s comments that I thought was particularly telling.

“He gives us more options – playing as a RB, CB, playing wherever the team needs. He is having the right attitude and I love these kind of players.”

That tells you plenty about what Iraola wants from his squad.

He wants players who understand that the team comes first.

Araújo could easily have arrived at Liverpool expecting to play centre-back, his preferred position, and become frustrated when asked to operate at right-back.

Instead, he has embraced the challenge.

And he is giving Liverpool something valuable in return.

Versatility is useful, but versatility combined with genuine defensive quality is even better.

Iraola can use Araújo at right-back when he wants more defensive protection, move him into the middle when necessary, or change the shape of the defence depending on the opposition.

That flexibility could prove particularly important over a long season.

Liverpool will inevitably face injuries, suspensions and periods when certain players need a rest.

Having somebody like Araújo gives the manager another option without necessarily weakening the defence.

What happens when Bradley and Frimpong are available?

This is where things become interesting.

Conor Bradley will want to reclaim his place when he is fit, while Frimpong still has plenty to prove at Liverpool.

But Araújo has made the decision much more complicated for Iraola.

If Liverpool look more secure with Araújo at right-back, the manager has every reason to keep considering him there.

That doesn’t mean Bradley or Frimpong should be written off.

Bradley has already shown what he can offer, while Frimpong’s attacking qualities are obvious. Liverpool still need to work out how best to use those strengths.

But Araújo has demonstrated that the right-back position doesn’t always have to be about getting another attacker forward.

Sometimes it is about having somebody who can defend the space behind the winger, win his duels and help the centre-backs maintain their shape.

Against stronger opponents, that could be particularly important.

And with Manchester City coming to Anfield, I can understand why Iraola values that extra security.

Liverpool need more players like him

The thing I like most about Araújo is that he appears to be making himself useful in whatever way Liverpool need.

He has arrived from Barcelona, adapted to a new environment and accepted a different role.

That is not always easy for an experienced international who has played at the highest level.

But he seems to have embraced it.

Iraola’s praise makes it clear that the manager has noticed.

And I think Liverpool supporters should appreciate it too.

There is still a long way to go this season, and we shouldn’t get carried away after a handful of good performances.

But the defensive improvement is real, and Araújo deserves credit for his contribution.

He might not be a natural right-back, but he is giving Liverpool exactly what they need from that position right now.

The next question is what happens when Bradley returns and Frimpong gets another opportunity.

For now, though, Araújo has earned his place in the conversation.

And if he keeps defending like this, Iraola will have a very difficult decision to make.

Perhaps the best thing about it is that Araújo doesn’t seem particularly bothered about where he plays.

He just wants to help Liverpool.

As far as I’m concerned, that is exactly the sort of attitude we need at Anfield.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

So Alexander Isak gets a yellow card against Bournemouth, but Bruno Guimarães escapes punishment for what Liverpool fans believe was the same thing? Make it make sense.

I’ll be honest, these are the sort of decisions that leave supporters scratching their heads.

When Isak scored the winner in Liverpool’s 1-0 victory at Bournemouth on September 20, the Swedish striker was booked shortly afterwards following his celebrations with the travelling Liverpool supporters. The goal was important, the celebrations were emotional, and Isak clearly wanted to share the moment with the fans who had made the trip.

Nobody is suggesting that footballers should be allowed to do absolutely anything they want after scoring. There are rules around celebrations, particularly when players enter the stands or put supporters at risk.

But when a similar incident appears to go unpunished elsewhere, questions are inevitable.

And that is exactly why the comparison with Bruno Guimarães is frustrating Liverpool supporters.

Why was Isak booked?

Isak’s goal at Bournemouth proved decisive in a difficult away game. Liverpool had struggled to create clear chances, and his finish gave Andoni Iraola’s side three valuable points.

Naturally, the celebrations meant a lot.

Isak went towards the Liverpool fans, shared the moment with them and was subsequently shown a yellow card. The booking was recorded in the match timeline shortly after his goal.

The issue isn’t whether referees should enforce the rules. They should.

The issue is whether those rules are being applied consistently.

If a player is booked for a particular type of celebration, supporters are entitled to expect the same standard to apply to everyone else.

And this is where Bruno Guimarães comes into the conversation

Liverpool fans have pointed to Bruno Guimarães and questioned why he apparently escaped a yellow card when Isak was punished.

That’s a fair question to raise, provided the incidents were comparable.

There is an important distinction, though: without verified footage and details of the exact circumstances, I wouldn’t claim that the two situations were definitely identical or that Guimarães should automatically have been booked.

But the wider point remains.

Football supporters want consistency, not one set of rules for one player and another set for somebody else.

Referees have difficult jobs. They make decisions in real time, often with players, coaches and thousands of supporters reacting around them.

Mistakes will happen.

But when one incident leads to a booking and another seemingly similar incident doesn’t, the authorities should be able to explain the difference.

Liverpool fans have every right to ask questions

This isn’t about claiming that Liverpool should receive special treatment.

Quite the opposite.

Liverpool should be judged by the same standards as every other club.

If Isak’s celebration crossed the line, the referee was entitled to apply the rules. But if another player did something comparable and escaped punishment, supporters deserve to understand why.

The Premier League cannot expect fans to accept every decision without question, particularly when television footage allows incidents to be compared afterwards.

And let’s be honest: these decisions can have consequences.

A yellow card might appear insignificant at the time, but bookings accumulate, suspensions follow, and players can find themselves walking a disciplinary tightrope because of decisions that supporters struggle to understand.

That is why consistency matters.

Just explain the difference

I don’t want to turn this into another argument about referees being against Liverpool. There is no evidence from these incidents alone to support that claim.

But I do want to see the same standards applied across the league.

If there was a clear reason for booking Isak but not Guimarães, explain it.

If the situations were different, show us how.

And if the referee simply made a mistake, admit it.

Liverpool fans aren’t asking for favours. They’re asking for consistency.

Isak scored a huge goal at Bournemouth, celebrated with the supporters who travelled to see him, and ended up in the referee’s book.

If Bruno Guimarães was involved in a genuinely comparable incident and wasn’t punished, it’s reasonable to ask why.

Because football’s rules should not depend on which player is involved or which shirt he happens to be wearing.

One standard. Every club. Every player. That’s all supporters want.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

I like what Virgil van Dijk is saying here, because I think he has identified exactly what Liverpool need right now.

Consistency.

Not one good performance followed by a disappointing one. Not a brilliant result followed by a game where we look completely different. Liverpool need to find a level they can maintain week after week, and our captain knows it.

Van Dijk has made it clear that Liverpool understand the standards expected of them. This is a club that must compete for everything, and he believes the players have to show that through their commitment, togetherness and performances.

His message is simple: Liverpool know what is required. Now they have to deliver it.

Van Dijk knows what Liverpool supporters expect

Van Dijk said:

“The next step, and the key step, is to find that level of consistency, and I hope you guys can see how hard we are all working in that regard.”

That is the important part for me.

Liverpool have shown encouraging signs, particularly defensively, but we need to see those performances become the norm rather than something that appears for a game or two.

There is plenty to like about this team. The defence has looked more organised, the players are working hard for one another, and there have been signs that Andoni Iraola is beginning to establish his ideas.

But I still want to see more consistency across the whole team.

We cannot expect the defenders to keep rescuing us if the attack isn’t firing. We need the midfield to control games, the forwards to take their chances and the entire team to maintain its concentration for 90 minutes.

That is how good teams win trophies.

“That’s not a pressure, it’s a privilege”

There was another part of Van Dijk’s message that I particularly liked.

He said:

“This is a club which must always compete for everything, and which demands the highest standards, every single day. That’s not a pressure, it’s a privilege, and it is one we all enjoy as Liverpool players.”

That is exactly the mentality I want to see at Liverpool.

Playing for this club comes with enormous expectations. The supporters want to see trophies, but they also want to see players who understand what wearing that shirt means.

Van Dijk certainly does.

He has experienced the highs of winning the Premier League and Champions League, and he knows what it takes to build a team capable of competing at the highest level.

But standards cannot simply depend on whether Liverpool are playing in a huge European night or a major Premier League fixture.

They have to be there every day, in training and in matches against every opponent.

That is what separates the best teams from the rest.

Manchester City is the perfect test

The timing of Van Dijk’s comments is interesting, with Manchester City visiting Anfield on Sunday.

It is exactly the sort of fixture where Liverpool need to demonstrate what their captain is talking about.

City will test the defence, put pressure on the midfield and punish mistakes if Liverpool allow them too much space.

We cannot afford to switch off or spend long periods chasing the game.

Liverpool need to be aggressive, organised and brave on the ball. We need to compete in the duels, support one another and take our chances when they come.

And, above all, we need to play with the same intensity from the first minute to the last.

I’m not expecting everything to be perfect. Iraola is still working with this squad, and there is plenty to improve.

But I want to see a Liverpool side that looks like it knows exactly what it is trying to do.

This is the sort of game where consistency becomes more than just a word.

Togetherness matters just as much

Van Dijk also called on Liverpool to show their commitment and togetherness.

That matters because no team gets through a long season without difficult moments.

There will be games when the passing isn’t quite right, when chances are missed or when an opponent puts us under serious pressure.

The response is what counts.

Do Liverpool keep working for one another? Do the players stay calm? Do they keep trusting the plan rather than allowing frustration to take over?

Those are the qualities that can make the difference over a season.

Van Dijk has been through enough with Liverpool to understand that success is not built on individual performances alone. It comes from a group pulling in the same direction.

And as captain, he has a huge role in setting that example.

Now let’s see it on the pitch

Van Dijk finished with a message that should excite every Liverpool supporter:

“if we do that, we can give you all another day to remember at this amazing stadium.”

That is what we want, isn’t it?

Another special afternoon at Anfield. Another performance that reminds everyone what Liverpool can be when the team is playing with confidence, energy and belief.

But the players have to earn it.

I don’t expect Van Dijk’s words to guarantee a victory against City, and neither should anyone else. What matters is whether Liverpool can turn that message into a performance.

For me, the biggest thing is that our captain understands the challenge in front of this team.

He knows Liverpool’s standards. He knows what the supporters expect. And he knows that hard work alone isn’t enough unless it produces consistent performances and results.

Now we need to see those qualities against City.

Let’s have the commitment. Let’s have the togetherness. And let’s have a Liverpool performance that gives Anfield something to shout about.

Van Dijk has made the message clear.

Now it’s time for Liverpool to deliver.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

There is already plenty of controversy surrounding Manchester City, and now Michael Oliver’s absence from this weekend’s Premier League fixtures has raised further questions.

The experienced referee will not take charge of a top-flight match this weekend as the Premier League returns following the international break.

That decision comes at a particularly interesting time, with Manchester City’s financial case dominating the headlines after an independent commission found the club guilty of serious breaches of Premier League financial rules. City have since lodged an appeal against the verdict.

And with Liverpool preparing to face City at Anfield on Sunday, supporters will inevitably be paying close attention to anything involving refereeing decisions.

The £20,000 payment claims need to be treated carefully

Reports circulating online allege that Oliver and fellow officials received around £20,000 for officiating a match in the United Arab Emirates in 2023.

The issue of Premier League referees taking appointments in the Gulf has attracted scrutiny before, partly because of concerns about potential conflicts of interest involving clubs connected to the region.

However, I have not found reliable confirmation that Oliver is currently the subject of a formal investigation over the alleged payment, or that his absence this weekend is connected to it.

That distinction matters.

A referee not receiving a Premier League appointment does not, by itself, prove that they are being investigated or disciplined.

Until more information is confirmed, it would be wrong to suggest otherwise.

The timing will inevitably attract attention

Liverpool supporters hardly need reminding how much scrutiny refereeing decisions can attract, particularly when Manchester City are involved.

The recent Manchester derby produced another major VAR controversy when Erling Haaland’s winning goal against Manchester United was allowed to stand. Pro Ref subsequently acknowledged that the VAR team should have recommended an on-field review over an offside offence involving Enzo Fernández.

Oliver was the referee for that match, although the admitted error concerned the VAR team’s handling of the incident.

He has now not been assigned a Premier League fixture for this weekend.

That is a fact. Whether the decision has anything to do with the UAE payment allegations is another matter entirely.

Liverpool need clarity, not more speculation

With Liverpool facing City at Anfield on Sunday, the timing could hardly be more sensitive.

The last thing supporters want is another major refereeing controversy overshadowing the football.

The Premier League and its refereeing body need to maintain confidence in the officials overseeing the competition. That means being transparent when legitimate questions arise, while also ensuring that unverified claims are not treated as proven misconduct.

If there is a formal investigation into the reported payment, supporters deserve accurate information about what is being examined and why.

But until that is confirmed, we should not jump to conclusions about Oliver or the reasons behind his absence.

The important question is not simply why Michael Oliver is missing this weekend. It is whether there is reliable evidence connecting that decision to the allegations circulating online.

For now, that connection remains unverified.

And with Liverpool facing Manchester City on Sunday, the focus should be on ensuring that the game is decided by the players — not another refereeing controversy.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

There’s a name Liverpool fans should be keeping an eye on, and it’s one that has been linked with Anfield before.

Assane Diao.

The Senegal international is attracting renewed interest from Premier League clubs after some impressive performances for Como, with Liverpool once again being mentioned as a potential destination.

And I can see why.

Liverpool need to keep looking at young attacking players who can bring something different to the squad. Diao has pace, power and the ability to take defenders on, and those are qualities I would love to see more of in Liverpool’s attack.

This is not to say a deal is imminent. Far from it.

But the fact Liverpool continue to be linked with him makes this one worth watching.

Liverpool have been watching him for a while

This isn’t a completely new name appearing out of nowhere.

Liverpool have previously been reported to be long-term admirers of Diao, dating back to his time at Real Betis before he moved to Como in January 2025.

Anfield Watch has reported that Liverpool’s scouts viewed him as a potential project player who could develop into a first-team option. There has also been a suggestion that Diao would be interested in playing for Liverpool himself.

That makes the renewed links particularly interesting.

Liverpool are not necessarily looking for another expensive signing who has to start every week immediately. They also need to think about the next few years and make sure there is enough pace, depth and competition in their forward line.

Diao could fit that kind of recruitment strategy.

At 21, he still has plenty of development ahead of him, but he has already shown that he can compete in Serie A.

What makes Diao so interesting?

For me, it is his directness.

Diao is comfortable playing on either wing, can attack defenders one-on-one and has the acceleration to make life difficult for full-backs.

He is also physically strong, which matters in the Premier League. You need more than technical ability to succeed in England; you need to be able to handle the contact, maintain your balance and keep moving when defenders try to stop you.

Diao has some of those attributes already.

His start to the 2026/27 season has helped bring him back onto the radar. Recent reports have credited him with goals and an assist in Como’s opening league matches, while Opta’s player profile records him as having featured in all five of Como’s Serie A games at the time of its latest update.

He is not yet a finished product, but there is enough there to understand why clubs are watching him.

Could he be what Liverpool need?

Liverpool have invested heavily in their attack, so any new signing has to make sense.

I wouldn’t want the club signing Diao simply because he is young and exciting. There needs to be a clear plan for how he would fit into the squad and how much playing time he could realistically receive.

But I do like the idea of adding another forward who can carry the ball at speed and stretch opposition defences.

Sometimes Liverpool need somebody who can beat a defender rather than move the ball sideways and wait for an opening. A player who can drive into space, force opponents to retreat and create danger in transition gives a team another way to attack.

Diao’s ability to operate on either flank could also be useful across a long season.

If Liverpool believe he can develop further under Andoni Iraola, this is exactly the sort of profile worth investigating.

Como won’t make it easy

There is one major complication.

Como are not keen to lose Diao.

Reports in September suggested that the Italian club had rejected interest from Premier League sides and regarded him as an important part of their plans. More recent reporting has also indicated that Como want to secure his future with a new contract.

That means Liverpool would have competition, and they may have to pay a substantial fee to persuade Como to sell.

Manchester United have also been linked with Diao, alongside clubs including Newcastle United and Aston Villa. One recent report placed Como’s valuation in the region of €50m to €55m, although that figure should be treated as reported rather than a confirmed asking price.

So this is not necessarily a straightforward opportunity to pick up a promising young winger cheaply.

Liverpool would need to be convinced that the investment is worthwhile.

This is one to watch

I don’t want to get carried away every time Liverpool are linked with a young attacker. Transfer rumours are one thing; a genuine bid is another.

But Diao is a player I would keep watching.

He has speed, strength, versatility and the confidence to attack defenders. Liverpool have reportedly tracked him for some time, and the renewed interest from Premier League clubs suggests his performances at Como are attracting attention.

For me, the key question is whether Liverpool see him as a future star or an immediate first-team option.

If they believe he has the potential to become a major attacking player, I can understand why they would want to move before his value rises further.

But they must have a plan for him, because spending a significant fee on another young attacker only makes sense if he is going to get the opportunities to develop.

I like the profile. I like the potential. And I like the idea of Liverpool continuing to look for players who can bring pace and unpredictability to the attack.

Nothing is guaranteed, and there is no confirmed deal at this stage.

Still, Assane Diao is one name Liverpool fans should be watching closely.

If these links keep growing, I wouldn’t be surprised to see his name feature in plenty more transfer discussions.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Thiago Alcântara back at Liverpool? I absolutely love the sound of that.

According to Paul Joyce, the former Reds midfielder is set to join Liverpool’s coaching staff in November, returning to Anfield after his recent spell working with Barcelona.

And I think this could turn out to be a really smart move.

Thiago might not have played anywhere near as many games for Liverpool as we would have liked, largely because of injuries, but there was never any doubt about his ability or understanding of football.

When he was fit, he was a special player to watch.

And now Liverpool could be about to benefit from that footballing brain in a completely different way.

Thiago understands what top-level football looks like

Thiago spent four seasons at Liverpool between 2020 and 2024, making 98 appearances and winning the FA Cup and League Cup. He arrived after winning the Champions League with Bayern Munich, having previously played for Barcelona.

Just think about the managers he learned from during his playing career.

Pep Guardiola. Jürgen Klopp. Carlo Ancelotti. Luis Enrique. Hansi Flick.

That’s an extraordinary collection of footballing influences.

Thiago experienced different tactical approaches, different dressing rooms and different ways of preparing teams to win.

He also played alongside some of the best footballers of his generation.

You don’t need to have played hundreds of games for Liverpool to understand how valuable that experience could be around a training ground.

And if he can pass even some of that knowledge on to Liverpool’s younger players, his return could be hugely beneficial.

I particularly like the idea of him working with Liverpool’s midfielders

This is where I get excited.

Thiago was never simply a player who passed the ball sideways and kept possession for the sake of it.

He could dictate the tempo, receive the ball under pressure and find passes that other players didn’t even seem to see.

He made football look easy when it really wasn’t.

Liverpool have plenty of talented midfielders, but developing the little details can make a massive difference at the highest level.

When should you turn? When should you play forward? When is it better to keep possession? How do you find space when an opponent is trying to close you down?

Thiago has spent his career answering those questions on the pitch.

Imagine a young Liverpool midfielder being able to learn from him regularly.

That doesn’t guarantee success, of course, but I can certainly see the attraction.

His experience at Barcelona could be important too

Thiago has already started exploring coaching, having worked with Barcelona’s staff after retiring from playing.

Liverpool’s official website has now published a conversation between Thiago and Andoni Iraola at the AXA Training Centre, discussing football principles, coaching influences and life at the club.

That is an interesting development in itself.

Thiago has experience of Barcelona’s footballing environment, while Iraola is building his own Liverpool team and establishing the principles he wants his players to follow.

There could be plenty for them to discuss.

I also like the idea of having somebody around the club who understands Liverpool as a player, rather than arriving with no knowledge of the dressing room or the expectations at Anfield.

Thiago knows the club.

He knows the supporters.

And he knows what it feels like to play in front of the Kop.

That familiarity could help him settle into a new role.

This is about more than bringing back a familiar face

I know Liverpool supporters will enjoy seeing Thiago back around Anfield, but nostalgia shouldn’t be the main reason for bringing somebody onto the coaching staff.

What matters is what he can contribute.

Liverpool already confirmed four coaching appointments ahead of this season, with Tommy Elphick and Shaun Cooper joining as first-team coaches, Pablo de la Torre arriving as an assistant and Tom Webber taking up a tactical analyst role.

Thiago would bring a different kind of experience to that group.

He has played under elite managers, competed at the highest level and experienced football in Spain, Germany and England.

He also knows what it takes to adapt to different systems.

For a Liverpool squad containing established internationals and exciting young players, that knowledge could be useful in all sorts of ways.

And I suspect he will have plenty to offer Iraola as well.

I’m delighted he could be returning

I’ll always have a little frustration about Thiago’s Liverpool career because we never got to see enough of him.

There were matches when he controlled the midfield in a way very few players could.

His performance against Manchester United in the 4-0 win at Anfield in 2022 remains one of the best midfield displays I’ve seen from a Liverpool player in recent years.

He could make the difficult things look effortless.

Unfortunately, injuries prevented him from producing that level consistently.

But that doesn’t mean his time at Liverpool was wasted, and it certainly doesn’t mean his experience cannot be useful now.

Sometimes a player’s contribution to a club continues long after his playing career ends.

Thiago could now have the chance to help Liverpool in a completely different way.

And if the reported November appointment goes ahead, I think it is something supporters should welcome.

Welcome back to Anfield, Thiago.

Hopefully, this is the beginning of another important chapter with Liverpool.

Jamie (The Kopite View)