By Alex Al-Kazzaz
Liverpool's start to their 2022-23 English Premier League campaign is not off to a good start. Two games into this season's Premier League, the Reds find themselves with two draws, with three goals scored and three goals conceded.
Liverpool is the current defending FA Cup and EFL Cup champions. In addition, they were runners-up in last season's UEFA Champions League, losing to Real Madrid in the final. After managing just two points after two games in the Premier League play, the Reds find themselves in 12th place in the EPL standings.
Their opening Premier League match against Fulham finished in a concerning fashion. Although Liverpool managed to salvage the draw late in the game, the worrisome part for Liverpool is the fact that they trailed Fulham TWICE in the match.
In their 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace yesterday, things seemed to go worst for Liverpool. They conceded in the 32nd minute and missed at least THREE big chances to score. In the 57th minute, striker Darwin Nunez received a straight red card for headbutting Crystal Palace defender Joachim Andersen who confronted and pushed Nunez. Luis Diaz equalized four minutes later but the final result is unsatisfactory for the club.
Due to receiving a straight red card and how he received it, Nunez is likely facing a three-match ban. The ban could be longer if the FA deems it necessary, but based on the incident, a three-match ban is the most likely scenario.
A suspension for Nunez will result in Liverpool being without two key strikers. Diogo Jota is still dealing with a hamstring injury he suffered during pre-season training and his return remains unknown.
Liverpool will take on Manchester United at Old Trafford on the 22nd. Manchester United has lost their first two matches in an embarrassing fashion and is at the bottom of the Premier League standings. In Liverpool's case, despite being without two important strikers, the club should been able to win.
As far as Manchester United, the team is a complete disoriented, unfocused, and unmotivated team. No doubt, Liverpool will take advantage.