Paul Scholes’ article: Slot’s remarkable success with Liverpool and my worries regarding the connections between Matheus Cunha and Manchester United.

Former England and Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes is set to provide exclusive insight and analysis for TNT Sports throughout the remainder of the 2024/25 campaign. In his inaugural column, Scholes reflects on Arne Slot’s remarkable achievement of winning the Premier League title for Liverpool in his first season in English football. He also shares his thoughts on Manchester United’s reported interest in Wolves forward Matheus Cunha. Fans can catch the Premier League and Champions League live on TNT Sports and discovery+.

Liverpool’s title win is an ‘unbelievable achievement’

When I watched Liverpool play at Old Trafford back in September, I genuinely believed they had a chance of clinching the league title. Despite Manchester United’s struggles, Liverpool impressed me with their attacking prowess. With goals coming from all areas of the pitch, I felt that as long as Virgil Van Dijk and Alisson remained fit, they would be strong contenders. Even though Alisson missed a few matches, Van Dijk’s presence was crucial, and winning the league is an incredible feat.

It’s true that Liverpool may not have faced the toughest competition this season, with Manchester City underperforming and Arsenal dropping points in draws. However, I still believe they would have triumphed even if they had been pushed harder. The last five weeks may have been quieter with no one chasing them, but ultimately, it was still an unbelievable achievement.

For me, they looked like the best team in the league. No one else came close, and that deserves admiration. When I retired, Liverpool were just two league titles behind us, so it was always a possibility. Given the current landscape, I would wager on Liverpool winning another title before Manchester United does.

Why Alexander-Arnold might prefer Madrid move

Trent Alexander-Arnold faces a tough decision. As a local lad, leaving Liverpool, especially after winning the Premier League, is no easy task. He’s at a big club, and if he were at a smaller one, moving to Real Madrid might be more straightforward. However, he must consider where he is more likely to win trophies in the coming years.

Real Madrid may be experiencing a slight dip, but their downturns are typically short-lived. The competition in England is fierce, with Liverpool vying for the Premier League and Champions League against the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal, and potentially a resurgent Chelsea. Do Liverpool look like a team that can dominate for the next five or six years? I’m not convinced yet, though I could be proven wrong. When City won the league, it felt like they would continue to do so.

With Liverpool, there’s uncertainty, and football is ultimately about winning trophies. For Trent, it boils down to where he believes he’ll secure the most silverware. You might lean towards Real Madrid, given their illustrious history in the Champions League and the relatively less competitive nature of their league, aside from Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.

Where can Liverpool improve next season?

Liverpool must focus on improving defensively. If Trent departs, they will need cover for Conor Bradley. While Conor has shown promise, he has a history of injuries. Additionally, if Caoimhin Kelleher leaves, they may face a dilemma regarding their second-choice goalkeeper. A left-back is also necessary; although Andy Robertson has been exceptional, there were moments this season where he appeared vulnerable.

I believe Slot will be keen on acquiring a holding midfielder. Ryan Gravenberch has performed well, but if he were to get injured, they would need significant backup. Furthermore, with Federico Chiesa likely not returning next season, they may require at least two new forwards, although I do think they already possess some of the best attacking talent in the league.

My doubts over potential Cunha-Man Utd deal

Matheus Cunha seems to possess the qualities that Ruben Amorim desires. His athleticism and skill, demonstrated by his 15 league goals this season, make him an appealing prospect. However, I have concerns about any new signing joining Manchester United at this moment. The atmosphere around the club feels quite negative, and the quality of play has been disappointing.

With Cunha, the question arises: is he a centre-forward or a wide player? While he undoubtedly has talent, I worry about how he would fit into the current setup. Even if you were to sign the best players in the world, they might struggle to adapt to this team right now, but every journey has to start somewhere.

Europa League will not save ‘disaster’ season for Man Utd

Manchester United’s Premier League campaign has been nothing short of disastrous this year. It has been painful to watch, particularly in their recent match against Bournemouth. The Europa League has provided a glimmer of hope, but winning it will not redeem their season. The Premier League is the true measure of success, and I believe Amorim understands that.

There is a flicker of optimism for fans with the Europa League, especially with a challenging tie against Athletic Club, one of the stronger teams left in the competition. Playing at home in the second leg could be advantageous.

If they were away for the second leg, I would be concerned about their chances, but if they can secure a positive result in the first leg, the support at Old Trafford could propel them forward. However, I wouldn’t bet on them as favourites to win, given their inconsistency. Yet, among the remaining teams, they have as good a chance as any.