William Gallas has warned Liverpool they will struggle to finish in the top four this season because Luis Diaz isn’t good enough to replace Sadio Mane.
Jurgen Klopp’s side finished second in the Premier League last season, one point behind champions Manchester City, after losing just two of their 38 league games. The Reds were crowned champions in 2019/20 and have finished in the top four in every full season under Klopp, who took over from Brendan Rodgers in October 2015.
Klopp has established Liverpool as one of the most consistent sides in European football, but this season could be different. The club sold Mane to Bayern Munich for £34million and have not signed a direct replacement this summer, in the belief that Diaz – a £37m arrival from Porto in January – can take his place.
Mane contributed 120 goals and 48 assists in 269 games for Liverpool and his departure will be keenly felt, according to Gallas, who has boldly backed his former clubs to push the Reds out of the top four. “As an ex-London player, I have to say Chelsea, Arsenal or Tottenham to win the Premier League,” he told Genting Casino.
“After watching Man City, they are still strong, Liverpool will still be there. It will be difficult for the London clubs to be honest. If Chelsea does not buy the right striker, they will not finish in the top four. Arsenal will be in the top four for sure.
“Liverpool can miss out because they don't have Sadio Mane anymore and Diaz does not have the same impact. Liverpool always concede goals too, like against Fulham. Even if I like how they play, I think it will be City, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham.”
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Diaz has made a strong start to life at Liverpool, chipping in with six goals and five assists in 28 games across all competitions. He looks set to be a crucial part of Liverpool’s new front line, having started alongside Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah in the 2-2 draw against Fulham on Saturday.
Tottenham look likely to be one of Liverpool’s main challengers at the top of the league this season, with six new players brought in to strengthen Antonio Conte’s squad. However, Gallas feels it is too early to judge Spurs after their thumping 4-1 win over Southampton on the weekend.
“I think Conte can make a surprise,” he said. “I don't know if they are going to be champions. When they played against Southampton, they looked good but they didn't look strong enough, perhaps it was because it was the beginning of the season.
“Maybe we have to give them a few more games to show what they can really do. That squad is better than last season, with Conte, I think they can do a good job this season and if they are consistent then maybe.”
