Daniel Sturridge has raised serious concerns about Liverpool's lack of a clear identity under manager Arne Slot, calling it "worrying" after nearly two full seasons under the Dutchman's leadership. The former Reds striker, speaking on Sky Sports after Liverpool's 3-2 defeat to Manchester United on Sunday, highlighted a troubling pattern that has left fans and pundits alike questioning the team's direction.

Premier League champions just 12 months ago, Liverpool have now lost 11 top-flight matches this season. Sunday's defeat at Old Trafford was particularly painful, with the Reds falling 2-0 behind within the first 15 minutes. Roy Keane didn't hold back in his assessment, describing Liverpool's first-half performance as resembling "a bad five-a-side team."

Sturridge pointed to defensive vulnerabilities as a major red flag. "What's concerning is the consistency of the counterattacks they're conceding," he explained. "No one in the midfield or the attack is stopping the play higher up on the pitch." He noted that while Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool had a distinctive, high-energy style, Slot's approach remains unclear. "We knew with Jurgen. With Arne, we've seen a possession-based team who are slightly more methodical. But when you look at the statistics this year, the stats are way down across the board."

The former striker also criticized the team's lack of cohesive play. "You want phases of play. Right now, there's not any phases of play for Liverpool. It's quite one-on-one," he said, suggesting the squad lacks the fluidity and tactical structure needed to compete at the highest level.

Despite his criticisms, Sturridge believes Slot deserves time to rebuild. "They can get Champions League football, regroup, decide on the framework, decide on the players who are with you. You've got to give the man a chance to implement the philosophy," he added, urging patience as Liverpool looks to rediscover its identity and return to the top of English football.