Could Liverpool Title Defence Be Worst in Premier League History?

"Following a sixth defeat of the season at home to Nottingham Forest at the weekend, could Liverpool be on course for the worst defence of a Premier League title in history? To compound their misery, rivals Everton moved above them with a victory at Old Trafford on Monday night, leaving Arne Slot's team 12th in the league table on 18 points."

"Claudio Ranieri's side struggled to rediscover the intensity and defensive solidity that had defined their unlikely triumph. Key players such as Riyad Mahrez and Jamie Vardy experienced dips in form, while the departure of N'Golo Kante left a gaping hole in midfield. By February, Leicester were just one point above the relegation zone, prompting Ranieri's dismissal. Craig Shakespeare steadied the ship, guiding the Foxes to a respectable 12th, but the 37-point drop remains one of the sharpest falls in Premier League history."

"A collapse almost as shocking as Leicester's ascension the year before, Chelsea's 2015/16 campaign was marred by turmoil both on and off the pitch. Jose Mourinho's relationship with the squad deteriorated rapidly, leading to a run of nine defeats in the first 16 games and his eventual dismissal in December. Eden Hazard, so brilliant during the title win, failed to score a league goal until late April, while defensive frailties repeatedly cost them points."

Following a sixth defeat at home to Nottingham Forest, Liverpool sit 12th with 18 points after rivals Everton moved above them. Bet442 compares this start to previous champions who suffered sharp declines the following season. Leicester City dropped to 12th in 2016/17 with 44 points, a 37-point fall from their title season; injuries, form dips for Riyad Mahrez and Jamie Vardy, N'Golo Kante's departure and Claudio Ranieri's dismissal contributed before Craig Shakespeare stabilised the side. Chelsea fell to 10th in 2015/16 with 50 points after turmoil, nine defeats in 16 games, Mourinho's sacking, and prolonged attacking and defensive problems.

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