Virgil van Dijk’s performance was a consistent topic in the podcast. Both Jim and Trev concurred on his significant importance to the team. Trev highlighted, “The obvious choice for the best performer of the year is Virgil van Dijk… He is one of these superstars of the game.” Jim also remarked, “He has such a football brain that even if his speed declines, his intelligence will compensate for it.”
Mohamed Salah was also recognized for his resilience and contributions throughout the season. Jim pointed out Salah’s critical role, especially in key matches, and emphasized how his presence remains essential for Liverpool’s attacking strength.
Arne Slot has several tasks to tackle once he settles into his role as Liverpool manager, and he must begin working immediately.
He needs to evaluate which players to retain and which to release, as well as identify new signings for key positions. Additionally, he has to address contract renewals.
Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and captain Virgil van Dijk are all entering the last 12 months of their contracts, though none of them are expected to leave this off-season. Van Dijk has retracted earlier comments hinting he might depart along with Jurgen Klopp this summer.
He was Liverpool’s most consistent player this season and is arguably the most influential figure in the dressing room. On Sunday, the Dutchman said farewell to his close friend and defensive partner, Joel Matip.
Among the remaining defenders, Jarrel Quansah has shown significant growth this season, while Liverpool also has Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez to choose from. However, there is a case for the Reds to seek another center-back who can develop and eventually replace the 32-year-old Van Dijk.
This potential signing should already be playing at a high level, have room for growth, and fit into Slot’s style of play. Marc Guehi, who is on the radar of several top six clubs this summer, is one such option. Expected to move on from Crystal Palace, Guehi is in the provisional England squad for Euro 2024 and may make the final cut. Turning 24 in July, he still has years before reaching his peak.
Guehi has proven to be composed on the ball, makes good decisions, and follows instructions well. In addition to Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United are also reportedly interested in him.
Liverpool have not had a consistent center-back pairing arguably since Jamie Carragher and Sami Hyypia, though Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel might disagree. For years, Liverpool has lacked stability in at least one center-back position.
Even this season, Quansah, Konate, and Matip have all rotated alongside Van Dijk. If Slot doesn’t see Konate or Quansah as Van Dijk’s partner, then Guehi could be a strong candidate.
However, Konate, who turns 25 on Saturday, still has time to develop, and Quansah looks promising at just 21. Bringing in Guehi might necessitate the departure of one of these players or Gomez, which could be unnecessary.
If Slot decides to make changes, Guehi would be a solid option, but a quick decision would be needed due to the interest in him. Guehi should at least be considered, even if Liverpool ultimately decides not to pursue him.
Guehi could greatly benefit from playing alongside Van Dijk, potentially more than Lisandro Martinez or Harry Maguire. Additionally, Arsenal may not offer as much playing time as Liverpool could.
