The Brazilian remains one of the finest goalkeepers in the world at the age of 32, adding authority and agility to an impressive defence. Injuries have hindered him for the second season in succession, however, and 20 games missed in all competitions is a concern, even if he was rested for some.8
The fact thatone mistake in the 90th minute at Newcastlestands out underlines what an able deputy Kelleher has proved to be again. Too good to be a backup option but unable to dislodge Alisson and facing a new threat when Giorgi Mamardashvili arrives from Valencia this summer, the 26-year-old is at a crossroads in his career.7
A fine season overall as he adapted to the modifications that Arne Slot wanted in his game, namely positioning and defensive consistency, while remaining the most creative part of a title-winning rearguard. The occasional lapse has fuelled the feeling that, unlike Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, the contract saga –and Real Madrid’s courting– has affected him.8
Alexander-Arnold’s form and injuries have limited the Northern Ireland international’s appearances but not his ability to make a strong impression whenever he sets foot on the pitch. Should be a regular next season if Alexander-Arnold departs for Spain on a free transfer.7
Started the season on the bench at Ipswich but made himself indispensable after being introduced at half-time. His pace has been vital for Slot’s high line and his concentration, awareness and fitness improved before a late dip. A perfect foil for Van Dijk, with whom he formed one of the strongest central defensive pairings in the Premier League.8
Impeccable for the majority of the campaign. Whether it was the uncertainty over his contract or relishing the extra responsibility he was given on and off the pitch by Slot, the captain has led by example. Mistakes crept in only after the title was in effect in the bag.10
Such an unlucky player. Could have joined Newcastle last summer as a makeweight in a deal for Anthony Gordon but stayed to show his worth to Slot in several positions. Then, and not for the first time in his 10-yearLiverpoolcareer, serious injury struck to curtail his campaign.6
Made some important contributions off the bench and filled in at right-back when Alexander-Arnold, Bradley and Gomez were injured, although opportunities to build on last season’s breakthrough campaign under Jürgen Klopp have been hard to come by. That is true for any squad player under Slot.6
The elite level is so unforgiving. Missed Slot’s first pre-season owing to a serious ankle injury sustained in March last year, having played on as Klopp’s side chased a quadruple and Scotland went to the European Championship. Paid a price with some uncharacteristic mistakes but it is ludicrous to suggest his time is up. Will benefit from a proper rest this summer.7
Given several opportunities to take the left-back role from Robertson but unable to capitalise or convince he could be a long-term solution. The Greece international’s set-piece deliveries remain impressive, his defensive work less so.6
Exhibit A in the case for Slot’s coaching acumen. Liverpool’s midfield appeared to have a serious hole when Martín Zubimendi opted to stay with Real Sociedad last summer. Gravenberch filled it superbly, his positional sense, movement and distribution making him a vital component of the title-winning machine.9
A midfielder who embodies Slot’s desire for control and intelligence in the centre of the pitch. So consistent and influential while forming an effective new partnership with Gravenberch. The 26-year-old has established himself as a quiet leader in a team that, like him, know how to win. Kickstarted the title party by firing Liverpool in front against Spurs on Sunday.9
The Hungary captain improved his goals and assists output – though Slot believes a player of Szoboszlai’s ability and in his advanced position should have more – but it is his phenomenal work rate that truly impressed. Came to the fore during the five games in 15 days in February that essentially decided the title, especially at Manchester City.8
The midfielder became a father and a full England international during a season in which his growing maturity on the pitch made a vital contribution. A regular starting role was elusive but the 24-year-old featured in most games and shaped many, including the home win over Chelsea that confirmed Liverpool were bona-fide contenders.8
The boyhood Liverpool fan recently turned 22 and is closing in on 150 appearances for the club, an impressive feat in any era, yet this season has been another test of patience. Deserved more league starts than he has been given – none – withand his finest moments came in the Champions League.6
The Japan captain has cemented his cult status despite not starting a Premier League game. An exemplary attitude and influential performances off the bench are the reasons why. Invariably sent on when Liverpool are protecting a lead, “the Finisher” consistently delivered. Liverpool have conceded only two league goals after Endo has entered the fray.7
The only ever-present in the league campaign alongside Van Dijk and, while the performance levels of both dipped in the closing stages, their defining influence on the title race is beyond dispute. More goals and assists than any other player in Europe’s top five leagues this season presented an overwhelming case forhis new two-year contract.10
Started the season as though he had a point to prove, helping Liverpool gather early momentum. His energy, drive and skill have been key features of a potent forward line, and his Premier League goal tally hit double-figures for the first time.8
It took a while for the Netherlands international to win a regular starting role but he repaid Slot with a telling run of form and goals, particularly during the winter period when Liverpool broke clear. An ankle injury sustained at Everton, then aggravated in training, curbed his influence but he was on the scoresheet in the title-clinching victory over Tottenham.8
Slot’s preferred central striker when fit but not fit often enough, unfortunately, as has been the case throughout his Liverpool career. Missed almost two months with a rib injury then, after another spell out in January, needed time to regain the sharpness and touch that make him so clinical.6
Slot may say otherwise in public but eight league starts show the club-record signing has not earned the head coach’s trust. Maddeningly inconsistent and criticised for his work rate against Wolves and Aston Villa in February, the striker’s unsuitability to Slot’s style has created an obvious area to address in the transfer window.6
The only addition to the squad for Slot’s debut season and, despite the attractions of a £12.5m deal for a forward of undoubted pedigree, it was a punt that did not pay off. Fitness problems meant the Italy international was playing catchup the moment he joined from Juventus and he has made only four substitute appearances in the league.4