Daniel Sturridge blames Liverpool’s transfer decisions for poor form, but Gary Neville won’t buy that as a reason.
Daniel Sturridge has pointed to Liverpool’s transfer decisions and the departure of key players as the main reasons behind their recent struggles, arguing that the club’s problems this season can be traced back to changes in the squad.
Gary Neville, though, pushed back against that view, saying Liverpool’s issues are more about structure and mentality than just personnel changes. He believes the problems go deeper than who’s come and gone from the squad.
Daniel Sturridge: ‘The big difference is they’ve lost key players’
Speaking on Sky Sports, Daniel Sturridge highlighted the exits of Luis Diaz, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Jarell Quansah as major factors in the team’s dip in quality and balance under Arne Slot.
Sturridge also questioned whether the new arrivals had filled the void, highlighting the contrast in form between Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak.
“Luis Diaz was one of the best players they had last season. Even though Salah set all the records, Díaz was relentless up front — pressing, scoring goals, creating chances.
“Trent Alexander-Arnold was the most creative right-back we’ve seen in the last 15 years in the Premier League. He doesn’t play for the club anymore.
“Jarell Quansah was there when Konate and Virgil weren’t playing well. Where’s Quansah? He doesn’t play for the club anymore.
“Ekitike has hit the ground running; Isak hasn’t. Ekitike’s been the best attacker for the club, scored the most goals, and been the most consistent.
“When you look at the squad, the big difference is they’ve lost key players. The players who have come in haven’t performed to the level that the players they lost performed at. That’s the truth.”
Gary Neville rejects transfer theory behind Liverpool’s decline
Neville responded by questioning whether transfers alone explain Liverpool’s loss of form. He said that mentality, tactical intensity, and consistency were more pressing concerns.
The former Manchester United defender argued that even with changes in personnel, Liverpool’s system under Slot should be adaptable enough to maintain performance levels.
The exchange came during Sky Sports’ Premier League coverage, with both pundits offering contrasting views on how Liverpool can return to form.
Sturridge maintained that squad turnover has disrupted the team’s identity, while Neville said the issues are rooted in energy and mindset rather than recruitment.
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