Jamie Carragher has issued a stark warning to Liverpool: without shoring up their defence in January, Champions League football could be in serious jeopardy.
The former Reds defender spoke candidly about the team’s struggles, highlighting the risks facing a squad that has underperformed despite a record-breaking summer spending spree.
A Rocky Title Defence
Liverpool’s title defence has been far from smooth.
The 3-0 thrashing by Manchester City before the international break only underlined the Reds’ struggles.
They have lost seven of their last 10 matches across all competitions and currently sit eighth in the Premier League, a position unthinkable for reigning champions.
Away form has been particularly troubling, with Liverpool repeatedly failing to cope with the physicality and direct play of their opponents.
It’s a weakness Carragher believes could have major consequences.
Why January Could Be Crucial
Speaking on The Overlap podcast, Carragher was blunt about the current squad’s limitations.
“I think there are lots of little things. But if we’re honest, looking at the games they’ve lost and the type of games they’ve lost, they can’t handle the physicality of the Premier League,” he said.
He added that manager Arne Slot is pushing for more attacking football and entertainment, a style inspired in part by Pep Guardiola.
But, according to Carragher, the Premier League has swung back toward powerful, physical play, leaving Liverpool ill-equipped.
“I don’t think this group of players is equipped to win the Premier League this year,” Carragher warned.
“Maybe in January, they’ll need to recruit — more physicality, more pace, more power.
If Liverpool don’t sign a defender, they could miss out on the Champions League.”
The Marc Guehi Saga
Liverpool nearly strengthened their backline in the summer with Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi.
The £35m deal fell through after Palace failed to secure a replacement, leaving Guehi’s medical completed but the transfer collapsed late on deadline day.
Reports now suggest Liverpool could return for Guehi next summer.
His current contract runs until 2026, and negotiations have yet to produce an extension, keeping the door open for a future move.
Potential January Targets
While defensive reinforcements remain the priority, Liverpool have also been linked with Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, whose reported £65m release clause becomes active midway through the season.
The Ghana international has impressed on the south coast, attracting attention from multiple Premier League clubs.
Questions Over Summer Signings
Liverpool’s summer arrivals haven’t made the impact many expected.
Florian Wirtz, signed from Bayer Leverkusen for £116m, has yet to record a goal or assist in the Premier League after 11 matches.
Reports from Sport Bild have suggested a lack of chemistry with Mohamed Salah, claiming the forward has favoured established teammates rather than linking up with the new German recruit.
Looking Ahead: Nottingham Forest Up Next
Liverpool will hope for a turnaround when they return after the international break.
The Reds face Nottingham Forest at Anfield on Saturday, aiming to close the gap on Arsenal, who currently lead the table by eight points after just 11 matches.
For Carragher and fans alike, January could be the defining moment for Liverpool’s season — and whether they remain in the hunt for Champions League football next year.
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