Alisson and Virgil van Dijk concerns cannot be ignored as Liverpool face transfer decision

Alisson and Van Dijk, both 34 and 35, are out of contract at season's end; recent performances raise questions about their futures as Liverpool weigh renewal decisions.

Liverpool face a significant decision regarding two of their greatest players. Alisson Becker and Virgil van Dijk are both out of contract at the end of the season, and their recent performances have sparked debate about their futures at Anfield.

Both players showed signs of struggle during Liverpool's 3-2 Champions League defeat at Fenerbahce on Wednesday. Van Dijk, now 35, was caught out by aggressive challenges early in the match and appeared physically hampered as a result. At his age, opponents are beginning to exploit any weakness, and he is no longer at his physical peak. Alisson, who turned 34 last month, made errors that contributed to goals, including a breakdown in communication for the second goal and a reluctance to leave his line for the third.

While both remain integral to Liverpool's leadership and experience, they have clearly gone beyond their peak years. Manager Andoni Iraola must navigate the difficult task of managing the decline of long-serving legends, a challenge that has proven problematic for previous managers. The club will need to decide whether to offer new contracts or begin planning for their departures.