Rooney: Liverpool’s struggles stem from lack of leadership
Former England striker Wayne Rooney has blamed Liverpool’s poor start to the Premier League season on a lack of leadership within the squad.
The defending champions have slumped to four straight defeats and now sit seventh in the table, seven points adrift of leaders Arsenal.
Their latest setback, a 3-2 loss to Brentford, capped a dismal run that also saw them fall to Crystal Palace, Chelsea and Manchester United.
Rooney questions Van Dijk and Salah’s influence
Speaking on The Wayne Rooney Show, the Manchester United legend expressed concern over the body language of Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk and star forward Mohamed Salah.
Rooney blames Van Dijk and Salah for Liverpool’s current form – Getty image
“No one expected this. It’s hit them fast and hard, and they look lost,” Rooney said. “This is when leaders have to step up.
“Van Dijk and Salah have signed new contracts, but they haven’t led that team this season. Their body language is worrying and when your top players aren’t right mentally, the whole team feels it.”
Rooney added that if he were a Liverpool supporter or manager Arne Slot, he’d be “deeply concerned” about the duo’s visible dip in confidence and influence.
Arsenal ‘ready’ for title challenge
In contrast, Rooney praised Arsenal’s form, suggesting Mikel Arteta’s men look ready to finally end their 21-year title drought after four straight league wins and three consecutive clean sheets.
“The squad is strong, and they’ve learned from past failures. If they don’t win it this time, I think you’ll see a managerial change,” he said.
Mbeumo proving his worth at United
Turning to Manchester United, Rooney commended forward Bryan Mbeumo for silencing critics with his recent form.
The Cameroon international has scored three of his five league goals in the last two matches, helping United climb to sixth.
“I wasn’t sure about him when he joined for £65m,” Rooney admitted. “But his energy, work rate, and desire make him a proper United player. If he keeps this up, he’ll easily hit 20 goals this season.”
