Arsenal branded 'Netflix team' as Liverpool warned over 'buying the league'

Former Manchester United defender Patrice Evra has warned Liverpool it “can’t just buy trophies” as the Reds prepare to defend their title.

Arne Slot’s side takes on Bournemouth later as it kicks off the 2025/26 Premier League season. It will be something of a new-look team that takes to the field at Anfield after a busy summer that has seen nearly $400 million being splashed out on new additions.

The likes of Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike and Jeremie Frimpong will all be expected to make their league debuts today, and the Reds look to be far from done with their business.

Giovanni Leoni looks set to be the next new signing confirmed, with Slot having confirmed that a deal has been agreed for the Parma defender, and there could be a couple more big names to follow before the window closes on September 1.

Liverpool remains in talks over a potential deal for Marc Guehi, while the Alexander Isak saga rumbles on, with Newcastle boss Eddie Howe confirming he won’t feature this weekend as he looks to force an exit.

Having wasted no time in strengthening following last season’s title triumph, the Reds have been made the favorites to make it back-to-back crowns by a lot of pundits, although Evra has supplied a warning for Slot and his team.

“I’m not shocked at Liverpool’s spending - money talks - but sometimes it talks too much,” Evra told Stake.com. “You can’t just buy trophies.

“The new signings have got talent, but the Premier League is another planet. If they adapt mentally, they can shine.”

Evra also gave his opinion on Liverpool’s potential rivals for the title, with the former United star admitting he wants to see Arsenal finally deliver after three consecutive second-place finishes.

“They’re still my Netflix team - drama, action, romance, even horror,” Evra said. “But I want a happy ending, not another beautiful loss.

“My heart says United will have a better season than Arsenal, but my brain says wait and see. Potential means nothing if you don’t turn it into points.”

Evra also backed Chelsea to play a part in this season’s title race. The Blues go into the new season having been crowned world champions in the inaugural Club World Cup earlier in the summer, and have made yet more signings as they prepare for their return to the Champions League.

“Chelsea are like that friend who disappears then shows up looking sharp. If they stay consistent, yes, they can fight for it.”

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