Merson explains why selling star was a ‘Huge’ blow for Liverpool

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As the world theorizes behind the prime reason that has led to Liverpool’s fall from grace this season, one of the reasons stumped up by many is Sadio Mane’s departure.

The Senegalese winger was one of the protagonists behind the Reds’ rise into becoming one of the most feared teams in the world and last term as well, he showcased his class by thriving in a false nine role.

With Darwin Nunez’s struggles to replicate the same levels of output and all-round performances as the now-Bayern Munich superstar, Liverpool have been a toothless presence up front so far.

In his latest column for Sky Sports, Paul Merson explained why Sadio Mane’s exit is what has led to the Merseyside-based side’s sudden decline.

“I’ve said time and again how huge the loss of Sadio Mane has been for Liverpool, to which I am told it’s not to blame for their struggles. My question is, if it’s not Mane- what is it then?

I remember when Liverpool were the best in the business closing teams down from the front, they would win the ball back high and be on goal within a pass. When was the last time they did that?”

Merson continued, “Then there were the 20-odd goals Mane would score a season, often winners or the first in matches- big goals. Mane has gone now and Liverpool have to find a way to cope without him, something they have yet to be able to do.

Whereas Arsenal played badly at Southampton and Leeds but avoided defeat, Liverpool are losing when they play badly. They are in a position similar to the one Arsenal found themselves in last season. Liverpool’s prospects have all changed since the start of the season.

They are not Premier League title contenders anymore, they have to get into the top four and secure Champions League football, it’s as simple as that. If they don’t get into the top four, the sale of Mane for £30 million will start to look really, really bad.”

While one would argue that Liverpool’s failings have been as a collective this season, there is no denying that losing a player of Sadio Mane’s calibre has affected the side this season.