Former Liverpool midfielder and Germany international Dietmar Hamann has ruled Jurgen Klopp’s side out of a potential title race.
The 49-year-old does not believe the Reds have what it takes to challenge Manchester City for the Premier League title this season, citing their summer business as a reason.
Liverpool have parted ways with several experienced players this summer – mostly from midfield with Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, James Milner and Jordan Henderson exiting Anfield.
The Reds have also bid farewell to Brazilian defensive midfielder Fabinho, who has joined Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad in a £40 million deal.
However, the only new faces to link up with Klopp’s side are World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton & Hove Albion and Dominik Szoboslai from RB Leipzig.
Liverpool are also working on a deal to sign Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia who is viewed as a like-for-like replacement for Fabinho. But they are yet to finalise the transfer.
While Mac Allister and Szoboszlai are impressive signings, Hamann believes Klopp’s side will need more reinforcements this summer or landing a Champions League finish will be problematic.
“If the squad stays like this until the end of the transfer window, it would be a great success for Liverpool to finish in the top four,” said Hamann (via German outlet Berchtesgadener Anzeiger).
Liverpool kick off their Premier League campaign with a tough clash against a rejuvenated Chelsea side this weekend.
Hamann believes the highly anticipated showdown could greatly impact the rest of the season for Klopp’s side.
“If the Reds don’t get off to a good start this season, it could quickly become uncomfortable,” the Sky expert added.
Much has been said about this season’s title race, with defending champions Man City bidding to extend their reign at the pinnacle of the Premier League.
Hamann is also of the opinion that Pep Guardiola’s side are default favourites but has tipped either Arsenal or Chelsea to beat the treble winners to the Premier League crown this term.
“Chelsea will play a very good role again this year, as will Arsenal,” Hamann said.
“I think the championship goes to London this year. One of the two clubs will knock City off the pedestal.”
