Former England striker Wayne Rooney believes Liverpool’s poor start to the Premier League season stems from a lack of leadership within the squad.
The defending champions have lost four straight league matches and currently sit seventh in the table, seven points behind leaders Arsenal. Their latest setback came in a 3–2 defeat to Brentford, following earlier losses to Crystal Palace, Chelsea, and Manchester United—a worrying run for Arne Slot’s side.
Speaking on The Wayne Rooney Show, the five-time Premier League winner expressed concern over the attitude and influence of captain Virgil van Dijk and star forward Mohamed Salah, both of whom have featured in all nine league games so far.
“No one saw this coming. It’s hit them quickly and hit them hard, and I think they’re struggling to find a way out,” Rooney said.
“This is when the manager and the team’s leaders need to step up and sort things out fast. Van Dijk and Salah have both signed new contracts, but I don’t think they’ve truly led that team this season.
“Body language says a lot—and right now, theirs isn’t good. When your two top players look uncertain or frustrated, that filters down through the whole squad.
“I might be wrong, but if I were a Liverpool fan or the manager, I’d be seriously concerned.”
Mohamed Salah has scored three Premier League goals so far this season, featuring in every game alongside skipper Virgil van Dijk.
