Fixing What's Wrong With Liverpool, Barcelona, Juventus, and More

Bill Connelly analyzes the biggest issues facing top European clubs and how they might address them. For Liverpool, the main concern is maintaining defensive solidity after a successful 2024-25 season under Arne Slot. While the Reds improved their shot quality and reduced defensive breakdowns, their recent offensive rebuild—adding young attackers Florian Wirtz and Gift Ekitike, plus new fullbacks—could disrupt the balance. Rumored signings of Marc Guéhi and Giovanni Leoni suggest Liverpool are proactively shoring up their defense, but if the new pieces don't gel, defensive lapses could be their undoing.

Barcelona, despite a stellar season led by young talents like Lamine Yamal, faces potential regression as Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha may not sustain their peak performances. However, the club's future looks bright with emerging stars Pedri, Pau Cubarsí, and Alejandro Balde expected to continue their development. Barcelona's challenge is integrating these young players while managing the decline of their veteran stars.

Juventus, meanwhile, is in turmoil after firing coach Igor Tudor. The club's problems are deep-rooted, stemming from years of mismanagement and a lack of clear direction. Integrating new signings like Loïs Openda and Jonathan David, along with young talents Kenan Yildiz and Francisco Conceição, could provide a spark, but only if the club stabilizes its leadership and strategy.

Nottingham Forest and Fiorentina also face significant challenges. Forest must find consistency after a turbulent season, while Fiorentina needs to improve their defensive resilience and convert chances more efficiently. Each club's ability to fix their core issues will determine their success in the coming season.