From fortress to fragile: What’s gone wrong with Liverpool’s defence?

October 30, 2025 Oliver Obel

A quarter of the 2025/26 campaign is gone, and Liverpool’s story so far has been one of extremes. Arne Slot’s side began in perfect fashion, stringing together seven consecutive wins across all competitions.

Even then, though, many of those victories came with a hint of luck — late goals and narrow escapes rather than dominant displays.

That momentum came crashing down with a loss to Crystal Palace, and since then, the Reds have looked a shadow of their early-season selves. Four straight Premier League defeats have followed, leaving fans worried and the pressure rising on Slot to steady the ship.

A 5–1 Europa League win over Eintracht Frankfurt has been their only bright spot in six matches.

Transfer questions resurface

Liverpool’s summer spending was bold. Big-money arrivals Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak were brought in to boost the club’s title defence, but neither has hit their stride at Anfield. Their slow adaptation has reignited debate about the club’s transfer priorities.

With defensive issues now glaring, some supporters wonder whether the funds should have gone toward shoring up the back line instead. Injuries and inconsistency have left Liverpool’s defence looking brittle, exposing a vulnerability their attack can no longer mask.

Pardew’s take on the Van Dijk–Konate partnership

Former Newcastle and Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew didn’t mince his words after Liverpool’s 3–2 loss at Brentford. Speaking to the Daily Express, he suggested that van Dijk and Konate “looked like they’ve had a row,” describing a pairing that appeared off-balance and short of confidence.

For years, the duo have been one of the Premier League’s most reliable defensive units. But this season, neither has looked at their best. Injuries elsewhere haven’t helped — Giovanni Leoni suffered a long-term setback on his debut, and Joe Gomez’s fitness struggles continue to limit Slot’s options.

What comes next for Konate — and Liverpool’s defence

Reports suggest that Konate’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season, with Real Madrid monitoring the situation closely. That uncertainty could force Liverpool’s hand: do they push for an extension or cash in and rebuild?

Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi has emerged as a leading target. Signing the England international — and adding further depth in defence — could give Liverpool’s back line the reset it desperately needs.

For now, the challenge for Slot is clear. He must rediscover the balance that made Liverpool formidable just a few months ago — before a worrying dip turns into a full-blown crisis.

Sources: Daily Express, BBC, Reuters, Sky Sports