An examination of Arne Slot's reasoning for Liverpool's struggles this season, following their Champions League elimination by Paris St-Germain. Slot has consistently expressed frustration over Liverpool's inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities, citing a lack of clinical edge in the final third. The Reds notched 1.92 Expected Goals against the European champions but failed to score, exemplifying their season-long issue. Liverpool's xG conversion rate in the Champions League has been underwhelming, with the team scoring 24 goals from 27.8xG, the largest underperformance among quarter-finalists.
However, their Premier League xG conversion rate is less concerning, with a goals total only 0.65 below their xG total. The team's struggles with converting big chances have been particularly glaring, with Liverpool missing 59 of 86 clear-cut openings in the top flight. The absence of key players due to injury, including Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike, has further compounded the issue. Slot has also voiced discontent over VAR decisions, citing several instances where the officials' rulings have gone against his team.
Despite these challenges, Slot remains optimistic about the team's future, highlighting the potential of young players like Ryan Gravenberch, Ekitike, and Wirtz. With six games remaining in the Premier League campaign, Slot faces pressure to secure a top-five finish and Champions League qualification for next season.