Jamie Carragher Critiques Liverpool Players After PSV Defeat

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has expressed his frustration with the club’s players following a disappointing 4-1 defeat to PSV Eindhoven in the UEFA Champions League. The match, held at Anfield on November 27, 2025, marked a low point in Liverpool’s campaign, prompting Carragher to voice his concerns about the team’s current form and the performance of key players.

In a segment on CBS Sports, Carragher emphasized that his anger is directed towards the players rather than the manager, Arne Slot. He remarked that Liverpool is not a club that typically dismisses managers, stating, “Liverpool’s not a sacking club. The manager is the king, the manager gets time.” He noted that Liverpool has never sacked a manager who has won the league, reinforcing his belief that Slot should not be the scapegoat for the team’s struggles.

Carragher highlighted the decline of influential players like Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, suggesting that they appear to be past their peak performance levels. “You watch Van Dijk now, not the same player, and Mo Salah looks like his legs have gone,” he said. While acknowledging their significant contributions to the club’s success, Carragher expressed a desire for Salah to engage with fans and provide insight into the team’s current situation.

Reflecting on Liverpool’s trajectory since their successes under manager Jürgen Klopp, Carragher pointed out that the foundation of their achievements has shifted. He noted that key players who once drove the team forward are now struggling, saying, “Alisson’s injured a lot now, he doesn’t play so much.” The former defender raised concerns about the overall quality of the squad, questioning whether other players can perform independently of Van Dijk and Salah’s influence.

Carragher’s critique extended to the broader squad, prompting him to ask, “Can you only play well when they play well?” He expressed disappointment that some players seem to have relied heavily on the brilliance of Van Dijk and Salah during their prime years, questioning their ability to step up in light of their decline. He remarked, “That is not acceptable for Liverpool Football Club.”

The former Liverpool defender’s commentary reflects a growing concern among fans regarding the future of the team. As they grapple with disappointing performances, questions arise about potential changes in both the player roster and management strategies. Carragher’s insights underscore the urgency for Liverpool to address its current challenges if it hopes to return to competitive form.

As Liverpool navigates this turbulent period, the club’s supporters are left hoping for a turnaround in fortunes, particularly from those who have been pivotal in their recent successes. Carragher’s remarks serve as a wake-up call, emphasizing that the team’s legacy and aspirations depend on the collective effort of its players moving forward.