Jamie Carragher has urged Liverpool to make significant investments in their attack this summer following their 2-1 Carabao Cup final defeat to Newcastle.

The Reds struggled to break down a resilient Newcastle side, with Mohamed Salah unable to inspire a comeback.

Despite the loss, Carragher defended Salah and shifted the focus to the need for reinforcements in the squad.

Newcastle’s Triumph and Liverpool’s Struggles

Newcastle secured their first domestic trophy in 70 years with goals from Dan Burn and Alexander Isak, while Federico Chiesa’s late strike proved insufficient for Liverpool.

Salah had a quiet game, but Carragher pointed to the lack of impact from other attackers like Luis Diaz, Diogo Jota, Darwin Nunez, and Cody Gakpo as the real issue.

“It was probably one of the worst performances I’ve seen from Liverpool in a cup final,” Carragher said on Sky Sports. “But they’ve given so much this season and they’ve lost one league game. It’s hard to be too critical, but it has shone a light on areas where Liverpool still need to improve.”

Carragher’s Defense of Salah

Carragher argued that Salah has been unfairly criticized, especially after facing top defenders like PSG’s Nuno Mendes in recent games.

He emphasized that Salah lacks the support he once had from players like Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino during Jurgen Klopp’s tenure.

“He doesn’t get help from the other attackers. This isn’t like under Jurgen Klopp where [Sadio] Mane or [Roberto] Firmino could bail them out of trouble. The other attackers Liverpool have got are good players, but they’re not great players,” Carragher explained.

A Call for New Signings

Carragher believes Liverpool must sign at least two top-quality attackers this summer to ease the burden on Salah and elevate the team’s attacking threat. “They’ve relied on him too much, so I don’t want to see too much criticism of Mo Salah over this last week. What it’s shone a light on is that Liverpool need to go out and buy two attackers – not as squad players, but possibly to play alongside Mo Salah, hopefully, next season.”

Despite Federico Chiesa’s arrival last summer, his contributions have been modest, with just two goals and two assists in 11 appearances.

Carragher’s comments highlight the need for Liverpool to address their attacking depth if they are to compete for major trophies.

Salah’s Contract Situation

Salah’s future at Liverpool remains uncertain, with his contract set to expire at the end of the season.

The Egyptian has been in sensational form, scoring 32 goals and providing 22 assists in all competitions.

Losing him would leave a massive void in Liverpool’s attack, making it crucial for the club to either secure his future or find a suitable replacement.

While Liverpool’s Carabao Cup final defeat was disappointing, Carragher remains optimistic about the team’s potential. “I’ve been excited thinking it looks like Liverpool are going to win the league, and there is still lots to improve – and I think they will in the summer.”

As the season progresses, Liverpool’s focus will be on strengthening their squad and ensuring they remain competitive in both domestic and European competitions.

With the right additions, they could return stronger next season and challenge for silverware once again.

Luka Modric continues to defy age and remain a vital figure for Real Madrid this season.

Despite being 39 years old, the Croatian midfielder has made more appearances than any other player in the squad, showcasing his remarkable consistency and durability.

Leading the Pack in Appearances

According to SPORT, Modric has played in a combined total of 51 matches this season, including his games for both Real Madrid and the Croatian national team.

While he doesn’t top the list for minutes played at the club, ranking 11th among Carlo Ancelotti’s most-used players, his overall involvement is impressive.

When his international minutes are included, he moves up to 9th place.

This season, nine Real Madrid players have featured in at least 40 matches, reflecting the depth and rotation within the squad.

Yet, Modric stands out as the player with the most appearances, surpassing younger teammates like Federico Valverde (50 matches), Kylian Mbappe (46), and Antonio Rudiger and Rodrygo (45 each).

Defying Age with Consistency

Modric’s ability to maintain such a high level of performance at his age is extraordinary. Ancelotti has managed his workload carefully, often starting him every other match.

However, Modric recently played back-to-back games, featuring against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League after starting against Rayo Vallecano in La Liga.

His importance extends beyond club football. For Croatia, Modric has been a guaranteed starter in all six international matches this season, proving his enduring value on the international stage.

For Real Madrid, he has appeared in 45 out of 48 matches, further highlighting his reliability.

A Legend in the Making

Modric’s contract with Real Madrid expires in June, but his performances suggest he still has plenty to offer. His technical ability, football intelligence, and leadership remain as sharp as ever, earning him the admiration of fans and teammates alike.

Real Madrid supporters hold Modric in the highest regard and would love to see him extend his stay for another season.

If he does, it would mark his 14th campaign with the club, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest midfielders in the history of the sport.

Modric’s remarkable season is a testament to his professionalism, dedication, and timeless talent. As he continues to shine on the pitch, he proves that age is just a number.

The future of French forward Kolo Muani is one of the most intriguing storylines heading into the summer transfer window.

Currently on loan at Juventus from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Muani has struggled to find consistent form, sparking speculation about where he’ll play next season.

With Juventus, PSG, and Premier League clubs all weighing their options, the 25-year-old’s next move remains uncertain.

Juventus’ Dilemma: To Keep or Let Go?

Juventus are in a period of transition, with both managerial and squad uncertainties shaping their summer plans.

The club’s qualification for the Champions League could play a key role in their decision-making. If they secure a top-four finish, they may push to retain Muani, but his recent dip in form has raised doubts.

As Calciomercato reports, “The Frenchman hasn’t scored for a month, he has stopped and shows no signs of recovery.”

Despite this, Juventus’ sporting director sees Muani as a “top-level profile” and is reportedly keen to secure another loan deal.

However, PSG have different plans. The French giants are looking to sell Muani outright to maximize their financial return, rather than extending his stay in Turin.

PSG’s Stance: A Sale, Not a Loan

PSG’s position is clear they want to cash in on Muani and reinvest in their squad. The club’s summer plans include a major overhaul of their attack, and Muani’s sale could help fund new signings.

As Calciomercato notes, “The ambition of the French is to immediately sell the striker and not necessarily to Juve, to whom the player was kindly loaned with a very clear aim. That of re-evaluating him and putting him on display for next summer.”

Muani’s time at Juventus has been a mixed bag. While he’s enjoyed regular playing time, he hasn’t rediscovered the form that made him one of Europe’s most promising forwards.

If he is to stay in Turin, it will likely depend on Juventus securing Champions League football and presenting a strong long-term project.

Premier League Interest: Newcastle in the Mix

The Premier League could be a viable destination for Muani, with Newcastle United emerging as a potential suitor.

The Magpies’ potential sale of Alexander Isak could create an opening for Muani to fill. As the report highlights, “Kolo Muani has a lot of market in the Premier League, above all Newcastle who can open the waltz of the strikers, with the fate of Isak yet to be discovered.”

Muani’s pace and versatility make him an attractive option for English clubs, but his inconsistent form raises questions about whether he can command a starting role at a top Premier League side.

Newcastle fans might view him as an exciting addition, but his lack of goals could be a concern, especially if Isak departs.

The debate surrounding Muani centers on whether he’s worth a long-term investment. His speed and movement offer something unique, but his recent struggles in front of goal are a red flag.

For Juventus, pairing him with a proven finisher like Victor Osimhen could be the solution, but the club may also consider a complete overhaul of their attack.

For Newcastle, Muani’s physicality and ability to stretch defences could fit well into Eddie Howe’s system.

However, fans might prefer a more established striker if Isak leaves. Ultimately, Muani’s performances in the final months of the season could determine his next destination.

As the summer transfer window approaches, Kolo Muani’s future remains up in the air. Will he stay at Juventus, return to PSG, or make a move to the Premier League?

His next destination will depend on a combination of form, finances, and the ambitions of the clubs involved. One thing is certain Muani’s transfer saga will be one to watch.