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Big-money signings have shown the champions’ ambition but the death of Diogo Jota cast a shadow over the summer

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Guardian writers’ predicted position: 1st (NB: this is not necessarily Andy Hunter’s prediction but the average of our writers’ tips)

Last season’s position: 1st



ProspectsLiverpool kits

Champions for a record-equalling 20th time, and by a comfortable margin, first-choice transfer targets secured in an ambitious recruitment drive and the possibility of Alexander Isak arriving too: Liverpool look in outstanding shape to celebrate their 21st title this season.

It is the unknown factor in their title defence.

On paper Liverpool have upgraded the squad that won the Premier League with four matches to spare and handed Slot greater depth and versatility for his second season.

The defending champions appear the same.

How they finished in the past five seasonsThe manager

There is a stark contrast between the character of the Liverpool head coach and the manager he succeeded last summer but, thanks to his tactical brilliance and calm, grounded manner, Slot exceeded expectations in evolving the squad built by Jürgen Klopp.

Slot made the best start by any Liverpool manager with 11 wins in his first 12 games, became the first Dutch coach to win the Premier League and joined the Anfield greats Joe Fagan and Sir Kenny Dalglish in winning the title in his first season.

The Portugal international was one of the most down-to-earth and popular figures in the dressing room, as well as a brilliant finisher who won the Premier League and Nations League in the weeks before his death.

However, any prospect of a straightforward promotion for a 22-year-old who has all the attributes for the job, and the experience of 57 appearances for Liverpool, was curtailed days after the Premier League trophy was lifted.