Is Sadio Mane holding Liverpool back?

Sadio Mane is now a shadow of his former self, with the Liverpool winger being an invisible man in their loss to Real Madrid in the Champions League. The Senegalese forward failed to register a single shot, didn’t win any defensive tackles despite his involvement tracking back, and also failed to create any chances for the Merseysiders in their loss against the Spanish club. 

Mane began the season well, scoring four goals in four appearances but things then took a turn for the worse, and the winger has only managed to score thrice in his 23 league games since then. His ability to create chances also seems to have evaporated, with the player only assisting six goals across all competitions this season. 

One of the main reasons behind this drop in form could be fatigue. In comparison, Diogo Jota has been firing on all fronts and is arguably the most prolific attacker for the Reds. The Portuguese looks fast and energetic, and that is something that Mane clearly seems to be lacking right now. 

Lingering after effects from contracting COVID could also be another explanation for his physical struggles. There has been no indication that Liverpool will want to do away with the 28-year-old due to his recent struggles, and clubs like Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, who were previously interested in the player, will now surely steer clear of any links. 

While it could be a dry spell, it has been going on for a little too long considering Mane is one of the best attackers in Europe, and Liverpool truly need their number 10 back in full form if they are to turn things around in the second leg against Real Madrid and also finish in the top four in the Premier League.