Mark Goldbridge on Liverpool’s Premier League Charge and Arsenal’s Struggles | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Premier League Dominance: Why the Title Race is Over

Liverpool have all but secured the Premier League title, and with their commanding performances, it’s hard to argue against them. That’s Football’s Mark Goldbridge was unequivocal in his assessment: “It might not be mathematical, but with 11 games to go they have an 11-point lead.” The latest victory against Manchester City only reinforced Liverpool’s superiority this season, as they remain the “most complete team in the Premier League.”

Liverpool’s Relentless Consistency

Goldbridge highlighted how Liverpool have faced doubts throughout the season but have always responded in style: “People said when Tarkowski got the late equaliser, Liverpool were crumbling. People said when Villa got a point the other night, Liverpool were crumbling.” Yet, despite these challenges, Liverpool continue to demonstrate resilience and dominance, proving their title credentials.

One of the standout factors in their success has been their defensive solidity. Goldbridge praised the centre-back partnership of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté, stating, “I think we’ve got the two best centre-back partnerships in world football at the moment.” Their ability to maintain clean sheets has been a crucial element in their title charge.

Arsenal’s Struggles in Front of Goal

While Liverpool have shown balance across the pitch, Arsenal’s title challenge has faltered due to a lack of goals. “Look at Arsenal—they’ve got the defence, they’ve got the midfield, but they haven’t got the goals,” Goldbridge remarked. He further pointed out that this issue is not new, saying, “It’s been a weakness of Arsenal’s for 18 months.”

With Arsenal failing to strengthen their attack in the January transfer window and struggling with injuries, Goldbridge believes their title challenge is all but over: “Arsenal are done. They’re absolutely done. Like, there’s no way back.”

Arne Slot’s Impact at Liverpool

Liverpool’s success this season has also sparked discussions about the influence of their new manager, Arne Slot. While many have credited Jurgen Klopp’s foundational work, Goldbridge was quick to highlight Slot’s impressive job: “Yes, Klopp built the foundations. Yes, Klopp would have won the league. But Arne Slot isn’t Jurgen Klopp. He’s had to come in and, with no transfers, take Klopp’s team and… take them up a level.”

Goldbridge emphasised how managerial transitions often lead to struggles but commended Slot for maintaining and even enhancing Liverpool’s performance: “You might have a successful restaurant, a successful football team—you change the manager, and the workers don’t necessarily respect or understand or work as hard for the new manager. For Arne Slot to go in there with that set of players and take them up a level, I think he deserves a massive amount of credit.”

Liverpool’s Treble Ambitions?

With the Premier League seemingly secured, Liverpool could shift their focus to other competitions. Goldbridge hinted at the possibility of further silverware: “Liverpool could end up with a Champions League and a Premier League this year, which is no small feat.”

He also pointed out the frightening prospect for rival clubs if Liverpool continue at their current pace: “By mid-April, they might be holding the Premier League title, and if they’re still in the Champions League… they could rotate and focus on that.” This could spell trouble for other European giants as Liverpool chase another historic season.