LONDON — Once upon a time, when Liverpool was the dominant team in Europe, it celebrated its triumphs by going out the very next day to buy two, perhaps three top players so it could perpetuate its greatness. Now, it is plundered by richer and more successful clubs doing the same to it.
For the third time in four years, Liverpool has had to sell one of its coveted stars.
In 2011, Fernando Torres went from Anfield to Chelsea — and Chelsea won the Champions League the following year.
In 2014, Luis Suárez left for Barcelona — and Barça won the Champions League.