Anfield was shorn of its flags and Liverpool lost all of their powers. A comprehensive first home defeat of the season, against a highly accomplished and effective Atalanta, has left the Europa League favourites with an almighty task to ensure Jürgen Klopp’s reign ends with a final in Dublin. A manager responsible for so many unforgettable European nights with Liverpool is at risk of exiting quietly.
Gianluca Scamacca, the former West Ham disappointment, scored twice as the Italians displayed the cutting edge and defensive fortitude that Liverpool sorely lacked all night. It was Liverpool’s first home defeat in 26 matches this season and they will need another famous comeback to preserve their hopes of bidding farewell to Klopp at the Aviva Stadium next month.
