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Liverpool climbed to the top of the Premier League table after a narrow 2-1 victory over Wolves on Saturday, September 28. They’ve certainly started the season with intent, but Gary Neville believes Arne Slot’s side are far from being title contenders based on their performance against Wolves.
The Reds had a bright start at the Molineux Stadium, breaking down Wolves’ resolute defense through Ibrahima Konate’s goal in first-half stoppage time. However, Wolves struck back in the second half, with Ryan Ait-Nouri leveling the proceedings in the 56th minute.
Just five minutes later, Liverpool were awarded a penalty, which Mohamed Salah converted for his fourth goal of the Premier League. Wolves certainly had chances after the goal, but Slot’s men defended well to secure the win and move to the top of the table with 15 points from six games after reigning champions Manchester City dropped points against Newcastle United.
Liverpool’s initial objective this season was to stabilize the squad after Jurgen Klopp’s departure from the head coach role. While Slot has exceeded expectations early on, former Manchester United defender Gary Neville remains unconvinced by their performances and believes a top-four finish is a more realistic goal than challenging for the title.
“I didn’t think Liverpool were anywhere near their best [against Wolves] and I think that they’re going to have a decent season it looks like. Maybe get Champions League football, I didn’t feel like I was watching title winners being honest with you," Neville said on his 'The Gary Neville Podcast.'
The upcoming fixtures could very well define Liverpool's season, as they are set to play a challenging run of games, both in Europe and domestically. Nevertheless, they will be pleased with their strong start, especially given the need to adapt from Jurgen Klopp’s style of play to Arne Slot’s.
Liverpool coach Arne Slot shares his verdict on Premier League title chances
Arne Slot has certainly adapted well to English football, with the players quickly adjusting to his style of play. Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold has looked rejuvenated, while Ryan Gravenberch and Luis Diaz have significantly improved their form under the new head coach.
However, Slot has dismissed any talk of title aspirations, stating that the fixtures have been favorable so far. He further stated that the squad remains realistic, as they are yet to face several of the bigger teams this season.
"We still have to prove that when we come across Arsenal, Newcastle, Chelsea [and] Aston Villa [to see] if we can then still be up there with Champions League games included as well," Slot said in a press conference.
"I think everybody is realistic enough. All the players have so much experience that they understand six games into the season doesn’t give you a realistic view on the league table," he added.
Liverpool will next face Bologna in the Champions League on October 2, followed by a clash against Crystal Palace on Saturday, October 5. Their schedule then becomes more challenging, with fixtures against Chelsea, Arsenal, and Brighton & Hove Albion scheduled later in October.
