What Happened to Liverpool FC?

OK, they have just been knocked out of the FA Cup by Manchester United last weekend, which is acceptable. But the bigger issue is how the once mighty Liverpool have fallen. It is not merely just this game; everything seems to fall apart this year as they recorded the worst winning percentage (41.4%) since 1959.

Dejected liverpool players after the 11th loss of the season

When Bill Shankly took over the managerial position at Liverpool FC more than 50 years ago during the worst times, his infamous words were:

"My idea was to build Liverpool into a bastion of invincibility. Napoleon had that idea and he conquered the bloody world! And that's what I wanted; for Liverpool to be untouchable. My idea was to build Liverpool up and up and up until eventually everyone would have to submit and give in."

1959 - Appointment of legendary manager Bill Shankly (left)

It was through this idea that he transformed liverpool from a second division mediocre club into one of the best in Europe. Liverpool would dominate English and European football for the best part of 30 years until the late 80's, with more than 60 trophies won. The domination of Manchester United in the 90's and 00's (read: noughties) meant liverpool became only second best, but nothing compares to the malaise of recent times. Watching one of their games this season, it is a common view that they have no gameplan, low confidence, players out of position, poor ball control, and all that comes with it.

The good old days with the 1984 European Cup

So what actually happened to Liverpool FC? According to one of their senior players, Jamie Carragher, Liverpool have actually been the architects of their own downfall. They have lost the "dignity" and "class" that the club was renowned for because of how some of the things were done - particularly the impact of managers such as Graeme Souness and Rafael Benitez who diverted Liverpool's philosophy of "attacking football" to rigid and solid formation. Most of the players that were brought in during their time was also not up to the standard required for a prestigous club.

There is however, a widespread sympathy that a club of the stature of Liverpool would be in this position. For Liverpool fans, Hope should not be lost. We all know that "history repeats itself" and it would just be a matter of time before they bounce back to where they belong.

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