Liverpool’s Midfield Struggles Highlight Urgency for Defensive Reinforcement

Midfield Weaknesses Exposed in Newcastle Draw

Within the first five minutes at St James' Park on Sunday, Liverpool showed promise with energetic ball control. Ryan Gravenberch's clever touch created space past Lewis Miley but instead of shooting or setting up Dominik Szoboszlai, he lost possession. Seconds later, Newcastle scored through Anthony Elanga after a quick counterattack initiated by Amar Dedic's clearance.

Liverpool lacked structure when not in possession. This defensive disorganization was costly and marked a tough start under Andoni Iraola.

Second Half Errors Continue

Gravenberch again gave the ball away near Newcastle’s box attempting a back heel. Yoane Wissa made a skillful run, bypassing multiple Liverpool players before assisting Joe Willock for a goal. Iraola hinted that a foul might have been the smart choice to stop this attack, but Liverpool paid the price.

Reviewing both goals, Gravenberch's decisions were questionable, and defenders Virgil van Dijk and Jeremy Jacquet could have reacted quicker instead of hesitating. A dedicated defensive midfielder might have prevented these threats.

The Defensive Midfielder Void

Since Fabinho’s departure in 2023, Liverpool have lacked a true number six. Iraola currently favors a two-man midfield pivot with Florian Wirtz as a number 10. At the time of Newcastle’s first goal, both Gravenberch and Szoboszlai were too far forward.

If Liverpool want to compete seriously, conceding such goals cannot become routine.

Iraola on Midfield Issues

"I think it's just not personnel," Iraola said. "Ryan Gravenberch is the six and if he shoots and scores, we praise his play."

This was notable since Gravenberch also assisted Cody Gakpo’s equalizer. When Newcastle regained the lead, Iraola substituted Alexis Mac Allister for Wirtz, which seemed to stabilize Liverpool defensively despite Mac Allister typically playing as an eight.

• Szoboszlai: zero tackles, won 3 of 10 duels (30%)
• Gravenberch: zero tackles, won 4 of 10 duels (40%)
• Mac Allister: two tackles, won 4 of 5 duels (80%)

Iraola added that defending is a collective task and situations like the second goal require better team coordination rather than blaming one player.

Match Stats Reflect Liverpool’s Missed Chances

• xG Newcastle: 1.43
• xG Liverpool: 2.73

Newcastle took advantage of their chances against Liverpool’s fragile defense.

Will Liverpool Strengthen Midfield Before Deadline?

Former striker Daniel Sturridge criticized Liverpool’s lack of a defensive midfielder, saying the team has needed one for three years due to their mostly attacking midfielders.

Liverpool’s transfer focus remains on adding wide attacking players despite Curtis Jones leaving. They will consider midfield signings only if opportunities arise. Iraola reportedly trusts his current midfield depth, including Wataru Endo, Trey Nyoni, and James McConnell as backups.

There was interest in Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, who has 71 Premier League appearances, but Palace are unwilling to sell the 22-year-old.

Under Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool pursued Moises Caicedo in 2023. After Arne Slot’s arrival in 2024, Liverpool tried to sign Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, but he declined the move.

Gravenberch had a strong season last year as Liverpool claimed the Premier League title, masking midfield weaknesses. Last summer’s transfer window prioritized attack with signings like Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz, and Hugo Ekitike instead of midfield reinforcement.

Now those gaps are more visible, and Iraola must make Liverpool’s midfield harder to penetrate or risk continuing defensive frailties.