# Liverpool's Possession Advantage and the Need for Improved Finishing
Liverpool has long been recognized as a team that excels in possession, controlling games, and dictating play. Manager Jurgen Klopp's philosophy emphasizes a high-pressing style that prioritizes retaining the ball and wearing down the opposition. This approach has been a cornerstone of Liverpool's success in recent seasons, particularly in their Premier League title wins in 2019-20 and 2020-21.
One of the key factors contributing to Liverpool's possession advantage is their ability to maintain the ball in dangerous areas. Players like Thiago Alcantara, Gini Wijnaldum, and Fabinho excel in midfield, breaking up play and recycling possession with precise passing and intelligent movement. Liverpool's midfielders often operate in a high-pressing block, forcing opponents into defensive shells and creating space for their attacking players.
However, despite their superior ball control, Liverpool has faced criticism for their finishing, particularly in key moments. While they often create numerous chances, the Reds have struggled to convert them into goals, especially in crucial matches. This was evident in their recent 1-1 draw against Everton, where opportunities like Mo Salah's missed penalty and Sadio Mane's close-range miscues went begging.
The need for improved finishing is especially critical when Liverpool faces high-pressure opponents. Teams like Manchester City and Chelsea are well-drilled in defending set-pieces and counter-attacks, and Liverpool can afford to miss fewer chances if they want to maintain their dominance. The absence of a consistent, clinical finisher in their squad has been a recurring issue, and it's something Klopp will need to address in the transfer market or through development.
In conclusion, while Liverpool's possession advantage is a significant strength, their inability to consistently convert chances into goals has held them back on multiple occasions. Addressing their finishing problem could take several forms, from signing a proven goal-scorer to improving the composure of their current strikers in front of goal. If Liverpool can combine their possession prowess with better finishing, they could take their game to the next level and challenge for even more titles.