McManaman urges Liverpool’s senior stars to show leadership after Brentford setback
Liverpool’s defeat to Brentford has reignited questions about consistency, mentality and the ability of key figures to inspire a response. Former Reds midfielder Steve McManaman has delivered a pointed assessment of the situation, insisting that senior players such as Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk and new signing Florian Wirtz must rise to the occasion.
McManaman calls for accountability
Speaking after the 3-2 loss at the Gtech Community Stadium, McManaman did not shy away from identifying those he believes must shoulder responsibility. The former Liverpool winger said that while success naturally brings plaudits, the true measure of top professionals lies in how they react to adversity.
“They have to take the criticism on the chin,” he said, noting that the same players celebrated for leading Liverpool to the Premier League title now need to confront the challenges that have emerged this season. “Salah needs to take it, Van Dijk needs to take it, and Wirtz needs to take it – and they have to respond.”
It was a message rooted in realism. McManaman understands the demands of representing Liverpool – the expectation to maintain standards and to lead by example when form dips.
Pressure on Salah to rediscover form
Salah’s struggles this season have been a surprise, given his remarkable contribution to Liverpool’s title-winning campaign just months ago. His goals, creativity and work ethic were once the driving force behind Arne Slot’s attacking system. Yet, recent performances have lacked the sharpness and composure that defined his game.
There is little doubt about Salah’s quality, but McManaman’s comments underline the urgency for the Egyptian to regain his rhythm. Liverpool’s attacking blueprint relies heavily on his clinical edge and leadership in the final third. Without it, the side’s fluidity has suffered.
Van Dijk under scrutiny as defensive issues persist
Van Dijk, once the bedrock of Liverpool’s defence, has also faced mounting scrutiny. His decision-making and timing have not always matched the standards that made him one of Europe’s most commanding defenders. Against Brentford, his error led to a penalty that proved costly, further amplifying doubts about his form.
For Slot, the Dutchman’s captaincy remains vital, not just for his defensive presence but for his influence within the dressing room. Liverpool’s tactical structure depends on Van Dijk’s ability to organise, communicate and inspire confidence among his teammates. Restoring that authority could be the catalyst for a wider team resurgence.
Wirtz adapting to Premier League demands
Florian Wirtz’s arrival generated enormous excitement following his £100 million move. The German playmaker’s creativity and technical quality were expected to add a new dimension to Liverpool’s midfield. However, adapting to the Premier League’s intensity has proven challenging.
At times, Wirtz has shown flashes of brilliance, yet he has struggled to impose himself consistently. His ability to unlock defences is clear, but McManaman’s comments suggest that now is the moment for the 21-year-old to demonstrate resilience and maturity. Liverpool invested heavily in his potential; the coming weeks will test how quickly he can translate that promise into productivity.
Slot’s task to reignite belief
Arne Slot faces the task of steadying a side that has lost its rhythm. Liverpool’s success under him last season was built on pressing intensity, tactical precision and collective spirit. Those elements have been missing in recent outings.
The upcoming run of fixtures at Anfield offers an opportunity to reset. McManaman’s rallying cry to the senior players reflects a broader truth: Liverpool’s season hinges on how swiftly they rediscover unity and conviction. Salah, Van Dijk and Wirtz represent the spine of this team; their response will define whether Liverpool can mount a serious challenge once again.
