After Liverpool's 3-1 comeback victory over Yokohama Marinos in a friendly match, some media have pointed out the Red Devils' key problem: the team still appears "top-heavy", and a new centre-back must be confirmed before the summer transfer window closes.
The game showed a "two-faced" performance: the full-strength starting lineup played carelessly in the first half with frequent mistakes – despite having many tall players in the squad, they were at a disadvantage in aerial duels at both ends of the pitch, and their corner attacks were completely toothless. The only bright spots were Salah's two assists for his teammates. In contrast, Yokohama Marinos demonstrated impressive tactical standards with their coherent passing combinations.
After conceding a goal in the second half, Liverpool finally got their act together. The team looked completely refreshed after substitutes and young players came on, with 16-year-old youngster N'Goumoha being particularly eye-catching. His vibrant breakthroughs on the left not only made fans temporarily forget Diaz's departure but also sounded the alarm for Gakpo. Among the new signings, Wirtz's ability is obvious to all, Frimpong is very reliable, Kverkves is steady, while Ekitike still needs to adjust his form.
Liverpool's current "top-heavy" problem is obvious: Konate is in mediocre form, and the team cannot rely on Gravenberch, Endo or even Tsimikas to 客串 as centre-backs in the new season. "The shortcomings that fans can see, the club's top management must clearly know in their hearts. The arrival of a new centre-back is imperative before the summer window closes."
