Liverpool’s pre-season tour in Asia didn’t exactly start with the kind of fireworks Reds fans were hoping for.
Facing familiar foes AC Milan, the Premier League champions looked unsteady at the back and sluggish in key moments, falling 4–2 in Hong Kong.
Sure, it’s early days under new boss Arne Slot, but this loss offered more than just fitness insights — it highlighted some glaring gaps and raised questions about what’s next.
Centre-Back Shortage Already Showing
Things got off to a rocky start even before kickoff with the news that Joe Gomez had flown back to England due to Achilles discomfort.
While the club insists it’s a minor issue, it’s still a worry — especially with Jarell Quansah already sold to Bayer Leverkusen for £35 million.
That leaves Slot with just three senior centre-backs, and one is now injured.
In the Milan match, midfielders Ryan Gravenberch and Kostas Tsimikas were thrown into makeshift defensive roles.
Both did their best, but it’s clear they aren’t long-term answers in that position.
Playing Gravenberch at the back also robs the midfield of one of its most creative players.
Even if Liverpool make another big-money move — like the rumored Alexander Isak signing — they still look one quality defender short.
And with Real Madrid sniffing around Ibrahima Konaté, who’s out of contract next summer, fans may have more transfer news to digest soon.
Defensive Gaps Becoming Hard to Ignore
Let’s chalk it up to pre-season rust, but Liverpool’s defense looked unusually disorganized.
Virgil van Dijk had some shaky moments, and Gravenberch stepping too far forward led directly to Rafael Leão’s opener.
In the second half, AC Milan added two more from counterattacks that sliced through Liverpool’s high press.
With Konaté and Tsimikas at the back, Milan’s quick wingers found way too much space — a pattern that could become a concern if not fixed soon.
The full-backs, Conor Bradley and Milos Kerkez, were also caught flat-footed as Milan’s attackers darted past them.
Slot will need to work on that shape and recovery in training — and fast.
Florian Wirtz Already Looks Worth Every Penny
On a brighter note, fans in Hong Kong got a glimpse of why Liverpool shelled out £116 million for Florian Wirtz — and he did not disappoint.
This was his first public outing in a red shirt, and he made an instant impression.
His first touch, composure, and vision stood out all game.
He connected beautifully with Mohamed Salah — their chemistry was already sparking, which is huge for a pre-season game.
If this is just the beginning, Wirtz could be a transformative figure in Liverpool’s midfield.
Young Talent Turning Heads Early
One of the most exciting parts of the match? The kids.
Sixteen-year-old Rio Ngumoha looked fearless in his 45-minute cameo.
Signed from Chelsea last year, the attacking midfielder created problems for Milan’s defense with his quick feet and creative dribbling.
Sure, he lost the ball early on, but he grew into the game quickly.
His decision-making still needs polish — like knowing when to dribble vs. when to pass — but the raw talent is undeniable.
Another standout was 18-year-old Trey Nyoni, a former Leicester City prodigy.
He had some dazzling moments, including a brilliant solo run that deserved a goal.
He’ll know he should’ve pulled the trigger earlier, but he’s clearly in the picture for Slot’s plans this season.
Are Diaz and Nunez on Their Way Out?
The absence of Luis Díaz and Darwin Núñez from the matchday squad was impossible to miss — and likely no coincidence.
Both players were present at the stadium but didn’t even make the bench.
With transfer rumors swirling, it felt like a quiet confirmation that moves are coming.
Díaz is reportedly being chased by Bayern Munich, who are expected to return with a new bid after Liverpool turned down their £58 million offer. The Colombian is said to be open to the move.
As for Núñez, interest has been quieter, but clubs like Napoli and a few from Saudi Arabia are still circling.
Liverpool are holding out for around £70 million, but the fact he didn’t play suggests discussions are well underway.
Looking Ahead to Tokyo
Next stop: Tokyo. Liverpool fly out for the second leg of their Asia tour with more than just jet lag to manage.
There’s optimism around Wirtz and the youngsters, but the lack of depth in defense and uncertainty around big-name stars like Díaz and Núñez give Slot a lot to consider.
The Reds will also be boosted by the return of Alexis Mac Allister, now back in full training after a lingering injury, and Wataru Endo, who should be fit to play on home soil in Japan.
