5. Liverpool needs a top center-forward
Liverpool is one of the best-attacking teams in Europe, with strength in both midfield and defense. Their dominance in the league phase of the Champions League and a 15-point Premier League lead are proof of their quality.
However, one issue that has persisted this season is the lack of a top-quality striker. Several players, including Diogo Jota, Cody Gakpo, and Luis Díaz, have been deployed as central forwards, but all of them are naturally suited to playing on the left. The only out-and-out striker in the squad is Darwin Núñez.
The Uruguayan was signed ahead of the 2022-23 season after an impressive stint at Benfica, where he scored 48 goals in 85 matches. At Liverpool, he has managed 40 goals in 135 appearances. While his pressing ability and movement have been valuable, his finishing remains inconsistent. He has also struggled with staying onside, leading to many promising attacks being wasted.
When Núñez stepped up to take his penalty, few were surprised to see his effort saved after his struggles before the shootout. If Liverpool can secure a top-class striker, it could take them to another level. Over the past 10-15 years, they have had world-class forwards like Fernando Torres and Luis Suárez. Even Daniel Sturridge and Roberto Firmino contributed significantly with their goals and overall play.