Tony Cascarino has claimed that Thiago Alcantara is currently Liverpool’s biggest problem in the midfield.
Former professional footballer Tony Cascarino has criticized Liverpool’s adaptation to Thiago Alcantara’s playing style in the midfield.
Despite the Spanish international’s Champions League pedigree and technical prowess, Cascarino believes that Liverpool’s recent struggles on the pitch are a direct result of accommodating Thiago’s style of play, which he considers a departure from the team’s traditional tactics.
During a recent appearance on TalkSPORT, Cascarino pointed out that Thiago’s skillful play and ability to dictate the game has caused Liverpool to shift away from their original principles, leading to a breakdown in their performance.
Cascarino noted, “My biggest issue is that Thiago is such a talented footballer that the team ends up playing the way he wants to play, rather than their typical style. Because of his pleasing style and technical skill, Liverpool often finds themselves with Thiago positioned in front of the back four, and if the opposing team is able to get past him, they are in trouble.”
Thiago’s value to Liverpool, according to Cascarino, would be significantly higher if he had the right supporting players around him. The former Chelsea striker pointed to the role that Fabinho used to play in covering for Thiago and allowing him the freedom to dictate the play.
Cascarino concluded, “In isolation, Thiago would not be a problem for Liverpool, but without the right supporting players, he becomes a hindrance to the team’s performance.”
The Reds suffered an embarrassing 3-0 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers.