ESPN FC What is Success for Liverpool This Year?
Jan 27, 2026
Gab Marcotti, seasoned football journalist, breaks down Champions League format debates and continental narratives. Frank Leboeuf, former France defender, explains defensive fragility and tactical needs. They debate what constitutes success for Liverpool, assess defensive injuries and transfer urgency, and argue the merits of the new UCL structure.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
High Expectations Keep Pressure Constant
- As Arnaz Slott said, a club like Liverpool cannot quiet outside noise unless it competes for the league regularly.
- Finishing outside title contention guarantees persistent scrutiny regardless of occasional wins.
Silence Critics By Winning Matches
- Winning games is the simplest way for Arnaz Slott to silence critics.
- Focus on consistent results rather than defensive explanations to restore support.
Top Four Is The Minimum Standard
- Beth Lindorpe says Champions League qualification is the bare minimum marker of success this season.
- Beyond that, winning any remaining trophy would meaningfully calm scrutiny.