Jan Molby Warns Liverpool ‘Won’t Win the League’ if They Repeat Newcastle United Performance | OneFootball

Liverpool’s 3-3 Draw at Newcastle United: Jan Mølby’s Insightful Analysis on Anfield Index Podcast

Liverpool’s thrilling 3-3 draw against Newcastle United has been the talk of the footballing world, and the recent episode of the Anfield Index Podcast, featuring Jan Mølby and host Trev Downey, provided an illuminating deep dive into the game. With Arne Slot now at Liverpool’s helm, Mølby dissected the performance with his trademark candour, touching on tactics, individual displays, and what lies ahead for the Reds.

Here’s what the Danish legend had to say, alongside memorable moments from the engaging discussion.

Newcastle’s Midfield and Liverpool’s Response

One of the critical talking points was Liverpool’s midfield, which Mølby felt lacked cohesion in the match’s vital phases. Speaking on the Anfield Index Podcast, he remarked, “Ryan Gravenberch had his worst game this season. Do you think that’s now going to be his level? Because I don’t.”

Mølby suggested that Gravenberch’s underwhelming display was an anomaly, not the start of a trend. He continued, “As a one-off, I would look at that and go, if we get on playing like that, we will not win the league. But then I look at the way we played on Sunday, and you go, we will win the league.”

This optimism was a recurring theme, as Mølby highlighted how Liverpool’s fluctuating performances should be viewed with context. He emphasised that, while weaknesses were evident, Slot’s side still showed signs of championship potential.

Photo: IMAGO

Darwin Núñez’s Performance Divides Opinion

Another key discussion centred around Darwin Núñez, whose inconsistency in front of goal continues to spark debate. Mølby didn’t mince his words when assessing the striker, saying, “This might be what he is. He gets into great positions… and then just misses the last little bit. That little bit of composure he lacks – it finds you out when you play at the highest level.”

However, Mølby did acknowledge the forward’s relentless work rate, citing a moment when Núñez tracked back to the edge of Liverpool’s box to make an interception. “That’s the kind of work he’s doing,” he said. Yet, with Liverpool’s high ambitions, Mølby questioned whether that alone was sufficient.

Trev Downey chimed in, suggesting that Liverpool might need to consider a reshuffle in attack come summer. “Could it be actually that we sell not one but two of those guys?” he speculated, referring to Núñez and Jota, and the potential for fresh faces in the squad.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot’s Tactical Flexibility Offers Hope

Mølby also lauded Liverpool’s tactical adaptability under Arne Slot, comparing it favourably to past eras. “We’re not just all-out attack. We’re not just sitting back and defending the edge of the 18-yard box. There’s all sorts of things we can do to control the game in different modes,” he noted.

This flexibility, Mølby argued, is a hallmark of teams capable of mounting serious title challenges. He stressed the importance of maintaining composure despite the unpredictable nature of the Premier League, adding, “What’s wonderful about the new setup is the honest assessment we get from the manager. I think he’s just brilliant – the way he communicates with people, he’s so honest.”

Defensive Solidity and the Road Ahead

Reflecting on the chaotic 3-3 result, Mølby drew comparisons between Newcastle’s and Liverpool’s defensive structures. While praising Liverpool’s overall squad strength, he urged for sharper focus in crucial moments. “If we get on playing like that, we will not win the league,” he reiterated.

With Everton and crucial Champions League fixtures looming, both Mølby and Downey agreed that the Reds need to iron out their inconsistencies. Yet, the optimism in their discussion was palpable. “This squad is strong, and there’s more to come from it,” Mølby concluded, hinting at a bright future under Slot’s leadership.