Liverpool’s 0-0 draw against Leeds on New Year’s Day marked the halfway point of the Premier League season. The campaign has been a rollercoaster for the champions, with highs and lows that have kept fans on edge. Starting with an underwhelming performance in August and September, the team managed to recover with seven consecutive wins. However, as the season progressed, Liverpool’s form began to decline, leading to a troubling stretch of nine losses in twelve games. This period raised questions about manager Arne Slot’s long-term future. Fortunately, the Reds have shown signs of stabilization, and they currently sit in fourth place at the start of the new year.

Player Ratings: A Mid-Season Assessment

Goalkeepers

Alisson (8):

One of the most reliable players for Liverpool, Alisson has delivered outstanding performances in key matches, including the league defeat to Crystal Palace and victories over Inter Milan and Brighton. His only mistake this season came with an error against Wolves, but overall, he has remained consistent.

Giorgi Mamardashvili (6):

As a steady but unremarkable replacement for Alisson, Mamardashvili has played 10 games, mostly in October and November. His kicking has been less reliable than Alisson’s, and there have been moments of nervousness in the back four when he was behind them.

Defenders

Jeremie Frimpong (6):

The summer signing has been limited to three starts due to injury, making it difficult to assess his full potential. However, he has looked promising in recent wins over Tottenham Hotspur and Wolves, hinting at a potentially impactful second half of the season.

Conor Bradley (7):

Like Frimpong, Bradley had a disjointed start to the season due to injury. However, he has been dependable when fit, stepping into the void left by Trent Alexander-Arnold. His best performance of the season came against Real Madrid in November.

Joe Gomez (6):

Gomez has played just 12 times this season, starting six matches. When called upon, he has been typically reliable, often playing at right-back.

Ibrahima Konate (4):

Konate’s season has been inconsistent, with some poor displays and a few excellent ones. His performances have stabilized in recent weeks, and he will hope to continue this trend in the new year.

Virgil van Dijk (6):

Van Dijk has not been at his usual standards, making too many errors for a player of his caliber. Despite playing more games than anyone else, his performances declined around November and December.

Andy Robertson (6):

Robertson enjoyed a run in the team in November but has largely played a backup role this season. He has performed well with fewer errors than last term.

Milos Kerkez (5):

Kerkez showed early-season inconsistencies, but these have eased somewhat in recent weeks, particularly on the defensive side. Further improvement is needed in the second half of the campaign.

Wataru Endo (5):

Endo has had limited opportunities to impress this season, starting just two matches, both in the Carabao Cup.

Midfielders

Ryan Gravenberch (6):

Gravenberch hasn’t maintained the form he showed last season, but his performances haven’t dropped as much as some teammates. He has improved in recent weeks as the midfield balance has improved.

Curtis Jones (7):

Jones has found a real niche in a deeper role and has started to establish himself as a regular starter. His contributions have increased as the team’s results have improved.

Alexis Mac Allister (4):

Mac Allister has seen a sharp drop-off this season, lacking the composure and poise that defined his performances last term. Manager Arne Slot has tried deploying him in a No. 10 role, but his early-season form was affected by the lack of a preseason.

Dominik Szoboszlai (9):

Szoboszlai has been Liverpool’s standout performer this season, excelling in multiple positions. He has provided 10 goal involvements, a feat only matched by Hugo Ekitike.

Florian Wirtz (6):

Wirtz’s slow start has given way to encouraging performances in recent weeks. He has added goals and assists to his game, showing greater confidence. While there is still room for growth, the signs are positive.

Federico Chiesa (6):

Chiesa has made notable contributions off the bench this season and looked good in his rare Carabao Cup starts. However, his performance levels have dipped in recent weeks, resembling those from last season.

Forwards

Mohamed Salah (4):

After an incredible season last year, Salah has been disappointing this term. He has scored just three goals from open play in the Premier League, and his absence before the Africa Cup of Nations led to dire consequences.

Rio Ngumoha (5):

Ngumoha has started only two Carabao Cup games and has mostly been used in fleeting cameos off the bench. His contribution since scoring the winner at St James’ Park in August has been significant, but at 17, he should be given time to adapt to the senior game.

Cody Gakpo (6):

Gakpo has had a mixed season so far, providing 10 goal contributions. However, his performances have often lacked end product, and his poor link-up play has frustrated fans. There is plenty of room for improvement in 2026.

Hugo Ekitike (8):

Ekitike has been the standout summer signing, adapting quickly to life at Anfield. He has scored 11 goals and provided two assists, making him a key player for Liverpool. His performances against Leeds United and Brighton, along with the winning goal in the Merseyside derby, have been highlights.

Alexander Isak (3):

Isak has endured a difficult start to his career at Liverpool, scoring just two league goals. He has struggled to keep up with the pace of the game, and fitness issues have hindered his progress. Despite his high-profile arrival, he has yet to make a significant impact.