Even though Liverpool has had a promising start to the season, Gary Neville has written off the Reds’ prospects of winning the championship this year.
Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez goals helped Arne Slot’s team defeat Bournemouth 3-0 on Saturday, bringing them back to winning ways in the Premier League. Their triumph placed them momentarily atop the standings ahead of Sunday’s match between Manchester City and Arsenal.
If the Reds want to fight for the championship this season, the outcome at the Etihad couldn’t have gone much better. In a fierce match between the top two teams from the previous season, John Stone’s equalizer at the last saved a point for City.
Liverpool is now one point behind Pep Guardiola’s team in second place after the 2-2 draw, while Arsenal is one spot farther behind in fourth. Even with five league games remaining, this season still has a very long way to go.
Neville, a former Manchester United captain, has already dismissed the Reds’ prospects of winning the championship.
Liverpool’s prospects of winning the championship were discussed with Jamie Carragher, the former Reds defender, during their reaction to City’s draw with Arsenal on the Gary Neville Podcast. But before he could respond, Neville said, “They won’t win the title.”
He has already dismissed Slot’s viewpoint on several occasions. Neville declared before the season even started that Liverpool will not only fail to contend for the championship, but also fail to place in the top six of the Premier League.
He stated on Stick to Football last month, “We have to go Arsenal and Manchester City because we all collectively agree.” “Yes, I do support Manchester United’s inclusion in the top four.” [On Liverpool making the top four], I’m not sure.]
“Do you think Manchester United will get in, but Liverpool won’t?” Carragher then questioned. “Maybe,” Neville replied, and Carragher continued, “You say this every season without fail.” Put this in your bookmarks.”
Neville added: “Every season, yeah. I am quite often wrong as well. It gets played back during the season, it’s quite enjoyable – I am going to go Tottenham – the surprise of the season, it can be anything. Surprise: Liverpool don’t finish in the top six.”
The good news for Liverpool is that Neville isn’t particularly skilled at making forecasts, according to Liverpool.com. His dismal performance against Liverpool this time can only be regarded as a plus for Slot, given his past statements about the Reds never winning the championship again in his lifetime and Jurgen Klopp’s desire to switch midfields with Erik ten Hag!
Of course, the Reds won’t be expected to challenge in Slot’s first season in charge. Given what we’ve seen so far though, they might be a lot closer than Neville’s anticipating.
