Lack of leadership blamed for Liverpool’s poor form
Wayne Rooney has claimed that Liverpool’s slump in form is the result of a lack of leadership within the squad, warning that senior figures such as Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah have failed to inspire the team during their worst Premier League run in years, reports BritPanorama.
The defending champions have now lost four league games in a row — against Crystal Palace, Chelsea, Manchester United, and most recently Brentford — leaving them seventh in the table, seven points adrift of leaders Arsenal. Saturday’s 3–2 defeat at Brentford saw Arne Slot’s side outplayed for long spells, deepening concerns over their ability to defend their title.
Speaking on The Wayne Rooney Show, the former England captain expressed concern over what he described as poor body language from Liverpool’s most influential players. “No one saw this coming. It’s hit them quick, it’s hit them hard, and I think they’re struggling to find a way out of it,” Rooney said, emphasising the urgent need for the manager and the leadership within the dressing room to address the situation.
He added, “Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah have both signed new deals, but I don’t think they’ve really led that team this season. Body language tells you a lot, and I think we’re seeing something different from both of them. They’re the top two players in that squad, and if their body language isn’t right, that affects everyone else.” Rooney noted that Liverpool fans and the manager should be very concerned given the state of the team.
Liverpool’s struggles come in stark contrast to the form of league leaders Arsenal, who appear poised to mount a genuine title challenge. Mikel Arteta’s side has won their last four Premier League matches without conceding, including a narrow 1–0 victory over Crystal Palace at the weekend. Rooney believes Arsenal are now ready to end their 22-year wait for a league crown, stating, “The squad is good enough now, and they’ve had the experience of going close. I think they’re ready for it.”
He warned, “If they don’t win it this season, you’d probably see a change of manager.” The Manchester United legend also remarked on his former club’s resurgence, as United climbed to sixth in the table following a 4–2 win over Brighton — their third straight victory — leveling with Manchester City and moving a point clear of Liverpool.
Rooney has reserved particular praise for United star Bryan Mbeumo, who has scored five goals this season, including three in his last two matches, acknowledging that he initially questioned the player’s transfer from Brentford for £65 million. “But his energy, his work-rate, his desire — that’s what you need to be a United player. He’s shown he belongs there,” Rooney stated, noting the importance of consistency in performance for scoring goals.
As Liverpool wrestles with its identity amid a challenging season, questions abound. The struggles of their star players may just be a reflection of the broader uncertainties within the squad, reminding fans how quickly fortunes can change in the Premier League.
