Sky Snubbed Anfield as Liverpool Lifted Title | OneFootball

Liverpool Latest: Behind the Scenes of Trophy Day and Transfer Plans

Broadcast row clouds Liverpool title celebration

Liverpool’s final-day Premier League coronation was drenched in emotion, but astonishingly, it almost went unseen by domestic television audiences.

Despite the occasion’s magnitude — a title presentation at Anfield — neither Sky Sports nor TNT Sports initially selected the game for live broadcast. Sky, holding first choice, opted for Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea due to its Champions League implications. TNT, with the next pick, chose Manchester United against Aston Villa.

In an unexpected turn, even Sky’s third choice wasn’t Liverpool. Key decision-makers at their Osterley headquarters leaned towards Newcastle vs Everton. While the global feed ensured the trophy lift would be broadcast internationally, it was still a perplexing omission from the UK’s live TV schedule.

Richard Masters, CEO Chief executive officer of the Premier League and Alan Hansen

Liverpool were aware of the discussions and, understandably, left puzzled according to the Daily Mail’s Confidential. Given the club’s global stature and the grandeur of a trophy presentation, it raised eyebrows that this fixture wasn’t seen as a priority. “It is probably a good thing the campaign is over and there is an opportunity for a break at the moment because this thought process is the kind of thing that can put a strain on relationships.”

Gakpo and Diaz draw interest from Europe

Transfer speculation isn’t limited to incomings. Cody Gakpo and Luis Diaz are both attracting admiring glances from continental giants. Barcelona have Diaz on their summer shortlist alongside Nico Williams, while Bayern Munich are tracking Gakpo as they seek wide reinforcements.

photo IMAGO

Despite the noise, there’s currently no suggestion Liverpool will entertain offers. The club remains intent on maintaining its attacking depth heading into a busy pre-season under new boss Arne Slot.

Summer plans underway

Liverpool’s squad will reconvene on July 8 for the start of pre-season, just 41 days after the campaign ended. A tour of Asia follows, including matches against AC Milan in Hong Kong and Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan. With fewer absentees expected due to major tournaments, the tour will feature a much stronger senior squad than in previous summers.