Liverpool 3–1 Preston North End: Player Ratings, Reaction & Talking Points – Nunez Impresses, Salah Off-Key
By Kingsley Ukpai | 13 July 2025 | Tribuna.com
Liverpool’s pre-season continued with a comfortable 3-1 win over Preston North End on a warm afternoon, offering fans a mix of encouraging performances and a few lingering concerns. While Arne Slot’s men didn’t need to hit top gear, several players stood out – for better or worse.
Let’s break down the performance player-by-player, including fan reactions and what it means going forward.
Top Performers
Conor Bradley – 7.5/10
Bradley showed exactly why he’s being touted as a serious contender to step up in Trent Alexander-Arnold’s absence. The 20-year-old right-back was full of energy, defended well, and got himself on the scoresheet.
- Stats: 1 goal, 1 interception, 43 touches, 83% pass accuracy.
- Verdict: Assertive, dynamic and composed – a promising pre-season showing.
Rio Ngumoha – 7/10
The 17-year-old winger was one of the brightest sparks in the first half. His fearless running, clever footwork, and directness caused problems for the Preston backline. He played a key role in creating Bradley’s goal with an incisive pass.
- Verdict: A breakout display. Arne Slot may be tempted to give him more minutes this summer.
Ryan Gravenberch – 7.5/10
The Dutch midfielder quietly dictated the tempo in midfield. He didn’t grab headlines, but his efficiency was vital.
- Stats: 1 key pass, 1 dribble, 88% pass accuracy.
- Verdict: Calm, composed and confident. He’s looking more assured under Slot’s system.
Average to Solid
Giorgi Mamardashvili – 6/10
The Georgian goalkeeper had little to do in the first half and wasn’t tested much by Preston’s attack. His distribution, particularly long balls, left something to be desired.
- Verdict: Not much to judge – quiet afternoon, but a few sloppy kicks.
Dominik Szoboszlai – 7.5/10
Szoboszlai continues to show why he’s a crucial player in Liverpool’s midfield. He was involved in the build-up, created space, and dictated transitions effectively.
- Verdict: Sharp and inventive – looks ready for the season.
Disappointments
Mohamed Salah – 5/10
This was far from Salah’s best. The Egyptian King looked unusually passive and disconnected from the flow of the game.
- Stats: 0 shots, 0 key passes, 0 assists.
- Verdict: Still adapting to pre-season rhythm, possibly affected emotionally after Jota’s tragic passing. Needs time to sharpen up.
Federico Chiesa – 4/10
The Italian, starting in a central striker role, struggled to influence the game meaningfully. He missed a one-on-one chance and was largely on the periphery.
- Verdict: Lacked sharpness and conviction. However, fans online insisted he played a vital role in the first goal with his dribble inside the box and a clever pass that led to Bradley’s finish.
Fan Reaction:
“Chiesa’s dribble created the opening – he deserves at least a 6.5.” – Letaa on Liverpool Live
“Unfair rating! He assisted the move for the goal. Give credit where it’s due.” – larry Uboh
Other Starter Ratings
- Joe Gomez – 5: Solid defensively but struggled in buildup.
- Luke Stephenson – 5: Neat, but not assertive.
- Kostas Tsimikas – 6: Decent showing on the left.
- Trey Nyoni – 6: Calm presence, but didn’t impose himself.
Substitutes Impact
Darwin Nunez – 8/10
One of the liveliest players on the pitch after coming on. Nunez was sharp, aggressive and scored a well-taken goal, showing composure many accused him of lacking last season.
- Verdict: Positive signs. Could this be the breakthrough season he’s been waiting for?
“Not usually a fan of Nunez, but he was excellent today. Give him one more season!” – liverpoolfan1714
Cody Gakpo – 7.5/10
Scored Liverpool’s third and provided a calming presence in the final third. He looked confident and clinical.
- Verdict: Picked up where he left off. Gakpo’s positioning was spot on.
Other Subs:
- Woodman – 7: Clean and composed.
- Endo – 6: Did the basics well.
- Jones – 6: Mixed bag. Some fans felt he underperformed again.
- Robertson – 4.5: Rusty outing.
- Doak – 4: Tried hard, but decision-making let him down.
- Kerkez & Frimpong – 7 each: Energetic and adventurous.
- Koumas – 5.5 | Nallo – 5
Manager’s Moment
Arne Slot was animated on the sidelines, barking instructions and demanding more intensity – especially in the first half. But his tone shifted after Cody Gakpo scored the third. A nod of approval from the Dutchman showed satisfaction with the overall display.
Final Thoughts:
Liverpool looked organized, focused and physically sharp despite it being early days in pre-season. The likes of Ngumoha, Gravenberch and Nunez impressed, while Salah and Chiesa will need time to get into full stride.
This was more than just a warm-up match – it was a chance for young talents to stake their claim and for veterans to shake off rust. Above all, it was a game played with emotion, just days after the heartbreaking loss of teammate Diogo Jota. The team wore black armbands in tribute, and fans observed a moment of silence before kickoff.
“Let’s win this season for Jota.” – Luai Albader, Liverpool Live
