Rooney Criticizes Liverpool Leaders Van Dijk Salah Amid Four Consecutive Defeats

Liverpool, the reigning Premier League champions, are currently facing a severe crisis characterized by a four-game losing streak that has dropped them to seventh place, seven points behind leaders Arsenal. Criticism has been directed at the club's recruitment strategy, particularly the decisions made by Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes, which failed to address key deficiencies in defensive midfield and center-back positions, despite notable signings like Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike. Manager Arne Slot, who led Liverpool to the title last season, is under intense pressure as the team struggles to find cohesion and a winning formula. Moreover, former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has publicly criticized Liverpool's senior leaders, Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, for their perceived lack of leadership and negative body language, which he believes is affecting the team's morale and performance. Both Van Dijk and Salah, despite recent contract extensions, have experienced dips in form, contributing to defensive weaknesses and a lack of goals, exacerbating the club's troubles. The mounting scrutiny from pundits and former players underscores the urgency for Liverpool’s management and leadership to address these on-field and off-field issues promptly to salvage their season.