A chant of “champions” was a constant from the away end throughout this wild afternoon at Old Trafford.
The Liverpool fans had every right to remind their rivals of their triumph last season, but it was a timely reminder too of how far their side has fallen in a feeble title defence.
United finished 42 points behind them in 15th place, but now look set to finish above Slot’s side for the first time since the 2022-23 campaign.
Michael Carrick’s men also completed a league double over Liverpool for the first time since 2015-16.
A tally of 18 defeats in all competitions is also the most since the Reds lost 19 in 2009-10, which was Rafael Benitez’s last season at Anfield. Since 1962, there has only been three seasons when Liverpool have lost more than 18 games in a campaign.
Those numbers sum up their plight.
It doesn’t take much of an eye test to sum it up too. Six points clear of sixth-placed Bournemouth with three games left, Liverpool should secure Champions League football and deserve some credit for that.
But watch this side on a weekly basis and it’s clear to see this is a team that is struggling and one that cannot wait for this campaign to finish.
The injuries have been relentless and that was encapsulated with record signing Alexander Isak absent at Old Trafford and third-choice Freddie Woodman and fourth-choice Armin Pecsi as their two goalkeeping options.
Mohamed Salah, also ruled out with injury, watched on from the directors’ box and how Liverpool could have done with the Egyptian who has scored more times against United in the Premier League than anyone else.
Despite the absences, Liverpool would have been aware of the task against Carrick’s resurgent outfit and had all week to prepare, yet still delivered a woeful first-half performance.
Once again, they went behind first and despite United’s best efforts to gift them a way back into the game and drawing level at 2-2, it was another Liverpool error which helped the hosts secure the three points.
Mac Allister will know he should have cleared his lines before Kobbie Mainoo’s 77th-minute winner.
Slot spoke earlier in the week about this summer representing the start of new cycle. At the bare minimum, he and his players need to ensure that includes Champions League football.
“I wouldn’t say I’m concerned [about qualifying] but I am completely aware that we need three points and that is why I am so annoyed we did not get them,” added Slot.
“If you are 2-2 and have come back from 2-0 down, you should at least come out with a draw.”
But, deep down, he will know that regardless of Champions League qualification, Liverpool are in for a summer of change.
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